Robert Redford, renowned for his iconic roles in films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, passed away at his home in Utah on September 16 at the age of 89. Beyond his achievements on screen, Redford’s influence endures most notably through his founding of the Sundance Institute in 1981, which laid the groundwork for the celebrated Sundance Film Festival and transformed independent filmmaking.
Tributes Highlight Redford’s Impact on Film and Culture
News of Redford’s death prompted heartfelt reactions from fellow actors, filmmakers, and admirers worldwide. Meryl Streep, Redford’s co-star in Out of Africa, expressed her sorrow, saying,
“One of the lions has passed. Rest in peace my lovely friend.”
Piers Morgan remembered interviewing Redford and acknowledged his incredible career:
“One of the all-time great movie stars,”
adding,
“A true Hollywood legend who starred in so many of my favourite films. What a career, what an actor, what a sad loss.”
William Shatner offered condolences to Redford’s family, while Marlee Martlin credited Sundance’s influence on the success of the film CODA, emphasizing,
“Our film, CODA, came to the attention of everyone because of Sundance, and Sundance happened because of Robert Redford. A genius has passed.”
Others who had not worked directly with Redford also paid their respects. Colman Domingo wrote,
“Thank you Mr. Redford for your everlasting impact. Will be felt for generations. R.I.P.”
Oscar-winning director Ron Howard reflected on Redford’s cultural contributions, stating,
“Thank you Robert Redford, a tremendously influential cultural figure for the creative choices made as an actor/producer/director, and for launching the Sundance Film Festival which supercharged America’s Independent Film movement. Artistic Gamechanger.”
Final Moments and Personal Life
Redford’s publicist, Cindy Berger, confirmed his passing in the early hours of September 16, revealing he died peacefully at his mountain home in Utah. She noted,
“the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved,”
adding, “He will be missed greatly.” The family has requested privacy during this time.
Redford married artist Sibylle Szaggars in 2009 and was a defining Hollywood figure from the 1970s onward. While his initial fame came from his work as an on-screen personality, he later directed and produced, earning an Academy Award for Best Director for Ordinary People in 1980. He was also a dedicated environmental advocate, founding the Redford Center in 2005, a nonprofit focused on filmmaking that advances environmental causes.
Environmental Advocacy and Honors
The Redford Center’s work, as outlined on its website, includes significant achievements such as helping to halt coal plant construction, restoring the Colorado River Delta, reconnecting people to nature, and accelerating the clean energy revolution. In recognition of both his film contributions and environmental activism, Redford was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 by President Barack Obama. During the award ceremony, Obama praised him, saying,
“As an actor, director, producer, and as an advocate, he has not stopped. We admire Bob not just for his remarkable acting, but for having figured out what to do next.”
Later Years and Retirement
Although Redford maintained an active career for decades, he gradually chose to slow down. In 2018, he spoke to the Associated Press about moving toward retirement, sharing,
“I just figure that I’ve had a long career that I’m very pleased with. It’s been so long, ever since I was 21. I figure now as I’m getting into my 80s, it’s maybe time to move toward retirement and spend more time with my wife and family.”
Throughout his life, he shared four children with his former wife, Lola Van Wagenen.
Chronicle of Key Career Highlights
Robert Redford’s career was marked by numerous unforgettable roles and projects, including:
- 1967 – Barefoot in the Park: One of his early starring roles that helped establish him as a leading actor.
- 1969 – Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid: This film solidified Redford’s place in Hollywood history and inspired the name of his famed festival.
- 1970 – Little Fauss and Big Halsy: A film that showcased his versatility as an actor.
- 1973 – The Way We Were: A critically acclaimed romantic drama featuring Redford’s compelling performance.
- 1980 – Directing Ordinary People: Marked his transition behind the camera, earning him an Academy Award for Best Director.
- 1985 – Out of Africa: Reunited him with Meryl Streep in a well-regarded historical drama.
- 1993 – Indecent Proposal: A notable film exploring complex emotional and moral themes.
- 1998 – The Horse Whisperer: Another significant directing and acting effort from Redford.
- 2018 – The Old Man & the Gun: One of his final acting roles displaying his enduring talent.
Enduring Influence on Independent Film
Redford’s establishment of the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival revolutionized independent cinema by providing a platform for emerging filmmakers and innovative storytelling. His legacy continues to inspire creators and audiences alike, as the festival remains a centerpiece in nurturing fresh talent and diverse voices in the industry.
His commitment to environmental causes, combined with his artistic contributions, has ensured that Robert Redford’s impact will be remembered far beyond his memorable performances. The film and climate communities alike recognize him as a passionate advocate and visionary whose work will influence future generations.
When I had the privilege of interviewing Robert Redford, I asked him to name his favourite of his own movies.. this was his answer: pic.twitter.com/9YdIsvTM7A
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 16, 2025
Our film, CODA, came to the attention of everyone because of Sundance. And Sundance happened because of Robert Redford. A genius has passed. RIP Robert. pic.twitter.com/nwttVD1GvL
— Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) September 16, 2025
With love and admiration. Thank you Mr. Redford for your everlasting impact. Will be felt for generations. R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/j5kDEdlZi1
— Colman Domingo (@colmandomingo) September 16, 2025
#RIP & thank you RobertRedford, a tremendously influential cultural figure for the creative choices made as an actor/producer/director & for launching the Sundance Film Festival which supercharged America’s Independent Film movement. Artistic Gamechanger https://t.co/HswHhmWq2D
— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) September 16, 2025
