Robert Redford, the Oscar-winning actor and founder of the Sundance Film Festival who passed away Tuesday at the age of 89, will be remembered through the heartfelt recognition of longtime friend Bob Woodward. The famed investigative journalist, who was portrayed by Redford in the film All the President’s Men, shared a moving tribute highlighting Redford’s lasting impact.
Woodward reflected on their friendship spanning over 50 years and Redford’s dedication to truth and principled storytelling, emphasizing his role in helping the journalist bring critical political stories to light. His tribute captured the essence of Redford’s character and contributions to film and society.
Redford’s Role in Bringing Watergate to the Screen
Bob Woodward revealed that Robert Redford was instrumental in encouraging him and his colleague Carl Bernstein to transform their groundbreaking Watergate reporting into a best-selling book that became the foundation for the 1976 film directed by Alan J. Pakula. Redford acquired the rights shortly after the book’s release and hired screenwriter William Goldman to adapt it for the big screen.
The movie exposed the political corruption surrounding President Richard Nixon, detailing how the journalists uncovered the illegal surveillance tactics Nixon’s administration used against political opponents. Woodward credited Redford for his persistence and influence in turning the story into a national cinematic event.
Personal Reflections on Redford’s Character and Influence
Woodward described Redford as “genuine” and
“a noble and principled force for good”
who consistently used his platform to elevate truth and fairness. According to Woodward, Redford had a reputation for following through on his commitments and inspiring those around him. The investigative reporter expressed deep admiration, saying,
“His impact and influence on my life cannot be overstated,”
and added,
“I loved him, and admired him — for his friendship, his fiery independence, and the way he used any platform he had to help make the world better, fairer, brighter for others.”
Woodward, 82, also noted Redford’s rare distinction of receiving nominations for both acting and directing Oscars, winning one in 1980 for directing Ordinary People. He predicted that Redford will be remembered as one of America’s great storytellers who consistently brought important stories beyond mainstream audiences.
Insights from Decades of Conversations with Redford
Woodward shared excerpts from interviews with Redford conducted over the past five decades, capturing his views on democracy, contemporary politics, and his legacy. One recent quote from Redford emphasized urgency and the need for change, as Woodward recalled:
“Time moves on and you have to move on with it or get lost behind,”
followed by,
“At one time there was a long road ahead of me and now that road is a lot shorter and I don’t have a lot of time to mess around. So you do the best you can with what you’ve got left… We have to do something that changes the scenario, changes the dialogue. Just like we did many years ago with Watergate.”
Woodward closed his tribute with a farewell, Godspeed, Robert Redford.
Other Tributes Affirm Redford’s Lasting Impact
Robert Redford’s passing has prompted a wave of respect from cultural figures who recognized his contributions on and off screen. Actress Jane Fonda, Redford’s co-star in films such as Barefoot in the Park and Our Souls at Night, expressed profound grief and admiration. She said she “can’t stop crying” and praised Redford for embodying
“an America we have to keep fighting for.”
Redford’s influence as a performer, director, and advocate shaped the American cultural landscape, reinforcing ideals of truth, courage, and justice that continue to resonate today.
