Born on May 14, 1935, in Salinas, California, Roberts was the son of a horse trainer, and his early experiences are what prompted him to begin exploring nonviolent horse training methods in the 1960s.
His approach was based on observing horse behaviour and communication, which he called “Equus”, and by the 1980s he was gaining public recognition for his methods.
Roberts created the signature “Join-Up” technique, establishing trust rather than using force, and later supplemented this approach with the “Follow-Up” method.
Roberts wrote several books, most notably his bestselling 1996 autobiography The Man Who Listens to Horses and was also the inspiration for the central character in Nicholas Evans’ 1995 novel The Horse Whisperer and its 1998 film adaptation directed by Robert Redford.
Read more: INSIDE ‘THE HORSE WHISPERER’ – Equestrian Life, July 2022
Roberts also gained international attention through his work with Queen Elizabeth II’s horses. This part of his career was featured in the documentary The Cowboy and the Queen, released in 2023.
Read more: THE COWBOY AND THE QUEEN & QUEENS AND COWBOYS! – Equestrian Life, June 2024
Roberts’ daughter, Debbie Roberts Loucks, shared the sad news on behalf of the family via social media today.
“For the world, he was known as the man who listens to horses. To me, he was simply Dad, a man of extraordinary kindness, unwavering integrity, and an unshakable belief that trust could accomplish what force never could.
“For more than eight decades, he dedicated his life to changing the way people understand and work with horses. His mission reached far beyond horsemanship. He believed that true leadership is built on communication, patience, empathy, and respect; lessons that have touched the lives of countless people around the world.
“Our family is deeply grateful for the love, friendship, and support you have shown him throughout his remarkable life. Your letters, visits, stories, and shared experiences have meant more than you could ever know. Together, you became part of a worldwide community united by a common belief that both horses and people thrive when they are treated with kindness and understanding.
“While our hearts are broken, we also find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on every time someone chooses compassion over force, listens before asking, and seeks a better partnership with their horse.
“As his daughter, I have always known that one day I would be entrusted with carrying his life’s work forward. That responsibility is one I accept with humility, gratitude, and determination. Together with our family and our dedicated team, we remain committed to preserving and sharing the philosophy that meant everything to him.
“One of the most meaningful ways to honour and continue Monty’s legacy is to learn the gentle methods he devoted his life to teaching. We hope you’ll join us at the Monty Roberts International Learning Center in beautiful Solvang, California, or continue learning through his MontyRobertsUniversity.com online.”
The American mustang Shy Boy played a special role in Roberts’ life was the feature of his book, Shy Boy. Shy Boy passed away in March at the age of 33, with Roberts’ paying tribute to his equine friend at the time:
“No horse will ever remain in my memory more than this wonderful American Mustang. I am now in my 90s and I’m it’s sure it won’t be long until I am with him again. All who knew him will agree he should be in everyone’s memory. I love you Shy Boy and I am sure I will see you soon.”
