Robert Redford, an iconic figure in Hollywood and a passionate environmentalist, passed away on September 16, 2025, at his home in Sundance, Utah. A newly released image shows Redford in a warm, relaxed moment, shedding new light on his final years, which quietly intertwined his love for storytelling and commitment to the planet.
Unveiling Robert Redford’s Last Public Moments and Final Image
Though Robert Redford retired from acting in 2016 and stepped away from the public eye after 2021, recent revelations show he remained involved in creative and environmental endeavors beyond what was widely known. His last public appearance was believed to be at a Monaco gala in October 2021, where he attended with his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, but he made a rare stage return in October 2022.
The announcement of Redford’s passing was shared by the Sibylle Szaggars Redford Fine Art Foundation on Instagram, accompanied by a previously unseen photo revealing the actor seated comfortably in a leather chair, wearing a soft gray T-shirt and smiling gently. Behind him, bold abstract paintings hint at his wife’s artistic world, portraying a serene and personal atmosphere far from the public’s perception of withdrawal.
Robert Redford passed away on September 16, 2025, at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah—the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved. He will be missed greatly. The family requests privacy.
— Statement from Sibylle Szaggars Redford Fine Art Foundation
Robert Redford’s Continued Influence Through The Way of the Rain
After his withdrawal from film, Redford remained connected to the public primarily through his involvement in The Way of the Rain, an environmental foundation led by his wife. This project allowed him to combine his artistic expression with his environmental advocacy in ways that were not initially apparent to many fans.
One of Redford’s notable late appearances was at The Way of the Rain’s multidisciplinary event, The Way of the Rain – Hope for Earth – A Symphony for our Planet, staged in October 2022 at Dallas’s Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Hall. There, with a live narration, Redford lent his voice to a powerful collaboration of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, a youth choir comprising 120 members, and soloist Alexandra Razskazoff, under the direction of Julian Benichou.
His voice, part spoken word and part storytelling, carried profound weight during this performance, blending music and environmental urgency, highlighting Redford’s ability to engage audiences on critical global issues.
It is a powerful Symphony composed by my collaborator Tim Janis, the Mother Earth Film footage as background created by Thomas McBee, Alexandra Razskazoff as our Mother Earth soloist.
— Sibylle Szaggars, creator and director of The Way of the Rain performance
The Fusion of Art, Music, and Environmental Message in His Last Project
The October 2022 event was not only a stage performance but later evolved into a full-length feature film set to premiere just days after Redford’s death, on September 27, 2025. The screening will take place at the John & Nancy Hughes Theater in Lake Forest, Illinois, accompanied by remarks from journalist Bill Kurtis.
The film tells the cosmic story of the universe’s formation, the evolution of galaxies, and the birth and challenges of Earth itself. Szaggars described the film’s narrative as a “love story with Hope,” emphasizing optimism amid the planet’s crises.
The film you are about to see tells the artistic story of the formation of the Universe, the evolution of all galaxies and eventually the birth of the unique and beautiful Planet Earth with all its elements. It shows the beauty of this masterpiece we call Earth, but also points out the challenges, threats and abuse this planet is going through.
— Sibylle Szaggars
We end our love story with Hope – because once you choose Hope, anything is possible ……….
— Sibylle Szaggars
Robert Redford’s Enduring Commitment to Environmental Advocacy
Robert Redford’s last project, The Way of the Rain – Hope for Earth – A Symphony for our Planet, serves as a poignant testament to his lifelong dedication to art, activism, and storytelling. A trailer released earlier in 2025 revealed Redford’s reflection on nature and renewal:
I do not believe we go up to the sky unless it is to come down again with the rain.
— Robert Redford, from The Way of the Rain narration
The Way of the Rain organization, inspired by the Southwest’s monsoon rains and founded as a response to climate change, uses film, music, and performance to raise environmental awareness. Redford’s involvement in the 2022 production lent emotional depth and symbolic weight to this cause, aligning him with a new generation of activists.
Reflecting on a Life Beyond the Screen
Robert Redford’s final years contrasted the public’s expectation of complete withdrawal. Though he avoided the spotlight, his presence lingered in artistic circles and environmental advocacy. His creative choices reflected a restless urgency and hope amid global challenges.
His legacy extends far beyond unforgettable film roles. At 89, Redford passed away peacefully in his mountain home, marking the close of a chapter that shaped American cinema as well as independent film culture. He was remembered not only as an actor but as an activist and storyteller deeply invested in the world’s future.
The solemn news, delivered by Cindi Berger of Rogers & Cowen PMK, confirmed that Redford died in his sleep, with the cause not yet disclosed.
Robert Redford’s Lasting Impact as an Actor and Cultural Icon
Redford’s career was defined by unforgettable performances that combined charm, intensity, and quiet rebellion. His portrayal of the outlaw in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) remains legendary, as does his role in the political thriller All the President’s Men (1976). His expansive filmography also includes hits like Three Days of the Condor, The Sting, Barefoot in the Park, The Way We Were, and Out of Africa, where he starred alongside Meryl Streep.
Throughout his career, Redford refused to settle for fleeting success, focusing instead on integrity and depth in both performance and storytelling.
Expanding His Craft Behind the Camera
By his 40s, Redford sought creative control beyond acting, establishing himself as a director with a clear vision. His 1980 film Ordinary People won three Academy Awards including Best Picture, signaling his ability to tell powerful, emotionally complex stories.
He later directed films like The Milagro Beanfield War, A River Runs Through It, and the politically charged Quiz Show (1994), which earned four Oscar nominations. Through these works, he maintained artistic integrity, choosing projects aligned with his beliefs rather than commercial trends.
In recent years, Redford appeared briefly in the TV series Dark Winds, playing a prisoner alongside author George R.R. Martin, while also producing 20 episodes of the show, demonstrating continued influence on modern storytelling.
Transforming Film Culture and Supporting New Voices
Beyond acting and directing, Redford’s most profound contribution may have been his role in shaping the future of cinema. In 1981, he founded the Sundance Institute, dedicated to nurturing innovative artists and film projects. By revitalizing Utah’s Sundance Film Festival, he created an internationally respected platform for independent film, revolutionizing how stories are told and championed.
This commitment to discovering and supporting new voices ensured Redford’s legacy would inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike, bridging mainstream success and creative independence.
