Jane Fonda has expressed a deeply emotional tribute to her longtime friend and co-star Robert Redford, following his death at age 89. The pair’s enduring bond, spanning decades of collaborative work in film, has left an indelible mark on Hollywood, highlighting the significance of their shared history for fans and the industry at large.
Jane Fonda’s Emotional Response to Robert Redford’s Passing
The news of Robert Redford’s death, at his home near Provo, Utah, on September 16, brought profound sadness to Jane Fonda, who publicly shared her grief. Fonda and Redford had a relationship that went beyond professional partnership, capturing hearts both on and off-screen. Their cinematic connection began in the early 1960s, continued through numerous films, and culminated with their final collaboration in the 2017 film Our Souls at Night.
Fonda revealed her overwhelming sorrow and admiration in a statement conveyed via her representative:
“It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for,”
she said.
On social media, Fonda reflected on their many joyful years together, sharing laughter and moments that defined their friendship. She accompanied her tribute with a photograph of herself alongside Redford and young actor Iain Armitage on the set of their last film. This image symbolized the culmination of their enduring partnership and reinforced the deep affection they shared.
Remembering Robert Redford’s Influence on Film and Friendship
Jane Fonda highlighted Redford’s profound impact on independent cinema, emphasizing how his artistic contributions transcended generations of viewers. To her, Redford was more than just a talented actor; he represented ideals she cherished deeply.
Fonda continued, sharing another heartfelt reflection:
“I am very sad today. Cried all morning. But luckily, I can think back on so many joyful, laughter-filled moments when his practical jokes would crack me up. I feel so lucky to have made one of his first big movies with him, ‘Barefoot in the Park’ (I fell madly in love with him on that one) and his last (the aforementioned ‘Souls at Night’),”
she expressed.
She also admitted regrets about postponing a possible visit to Redford in recent months, underscoring the importance of cherishing time with loved ones, especially in later years. Fonda emphasized that at their age, it is crucial not to delay personal reconciliations and connections.
She concluded her tribute to Redford with gratitude:
“Thank you, dearest Bob, for all the pleasure you brought over the years. RIP,”
a final homage marking the end of an era for many in Hollywood and beyond.
Fonda’s Longstanding Affection and Memories of Robert Redford
Their relationship had always been one driven by mutual admiration and respect. Fonda often spoke publicly about her fondness for Redford, recalling a publicity photo from the 1967 film Barefoot in the Park, where she said,
“He is so handsome and just such a wonderful human being. Every movie I made with him, I developed a crush on him.”
In an interview with The Guardian, Fonda elaborated on her feelings for Redford during their years working together:
“And I was always in love with Robert Redford – I made three films with him and nothing happened because I was married and he was married.”
She also reminisced about the first time they crossed paths, describing how the presence of Redford captivated even those around him:
“There was nobody more gorgeous than him.”
Secretaries reportedly paused their work just to watch him walk down a corridor, a testament to his rising stardom at the time.
Robert Redford’s Reflections on Working with Jane Fonda
In interviews promoting Our Souls at Night, Redford spoke warmly of his collaboration with Fonda, praising her resilience and forward momentum, both personally and professionally. He described her as a force, highlighting the strength she projected in the film and in life.
Redford noted,
“It is an admirable quality and I think, very few people have it like Jane does.”
His appreciation for Fonda’s character mirrored the on-screen chemistry they maintained through decades of work together.
Fonda revealed that re-teaming for Our Souls at Night was in part motivated by the chance to rediscover the romantic spark they had shared earlier in their careers. Meanwhile, Redford expressed a desire to act alongside her again, though he acknowledged the limitations time imposed on them both.
A Visual Journey Through Their Enduring Collaboration
From 1965 to 2017, Robert Redford and Jane Fonda’s professional and personal relationship unfolded through iconic films and shared appearances that cemented their legacy in cinema history.
In 1965, the duo worked together on the crime thriller The Chase, where they are seen intensely focused on a scene, illustrating the early stages of their enduring partnership.
Two years later, in 1967, they starred in the romantic comedy Barefoot in the Park. Photographs from that period capture moments of tenderness and passion, including Redford leaning in for a kiss as Fonda gazes affectionately in a Manhattan street scene, as well as a studio portrait that showcased their chemistry.
By 1970, the pair filmed scenes in Washington Square Park, New York, with one memorable shot capturing Redford lying on the ground while Fonda holds him by the neck, their eyes locked in an intimate gaze.
Their collaboration continued into the late 1970s on the film The Electric Horseman. Behind-the-scenes images show Fonda and Redford as relaxed lovers in bed, and in other candid moments, Redford smiling happily as Fonda rests her head on his shoulder, framed by director Sydney Pollack’s guidance.
In 2008, they were spotted together at the Sundance Institute Celebration Fundraiser held at Roseland Ballroom in New York. Joining them was actress Christine Lahti, capturing a rare moment of camaraderie and shared history.
Moving forward to 2015, Redford and Fonda were seen engaging deeply during the 42nd Chaplin Award Gala at New York’s Lincoln Center, a testament to the respect they maintained for each other well into their later years.
The final chapter of their collaborative career arrived in 2017 at the Venice Film Festival. At the photocall for Our Souls at Night in Italy, Redford held Fonda close, while the pair attended the film’s New York premiere later that year, where Fonda tenderly kissed Redford on the cheek, illustrating their enduring affection.
The Enduring Impact of Robert Redford and Jane Fonda’s Partnership
Robert Redford’s death marks the loss of one of Hollywood’s most revered figures, whose contributions extended beyond acting to influencing independent film and advocacy. Jane Fonda’s tribute underscores not only their artistic legacy but also the personal connections that define a career enriched by decades of collaboration.
Their story offers a reminder of the value of friendship, the fleeting nature of time, and the powerful influence that shared passion and respect can generate both on screen and in life. As fans and colleagues mourn Redford’s passing, Fonda’s words carry a hopeful message about the importance of holding dear the moments and relationships that shape us.
