Robert Redford passed away on September 16, 2025, at his home in Sundance, Utah. The 89-year-old actor and environmentalist’s death was announced by his publicist, Cindi Berger, but the cause has not been disclosed. Known for his enduring commitment to environmental causes, Redford made a rare public appearance in October 2021 at the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s award ceremony held at Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum.
In these final photos, Redford appears in good spirits alongside his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, who is 68 years old and married to him since 2009. The couple wore elegant white attire, with Redford in a tailored suit and Szaggars in a floor-length eyelet dress. During the event, they were also seen wearing colorful facemasks amid ongoing concerns about COVID-19.
Redford’s Commitment to Protecting the Planet
The choice of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s ceremony as Redford’s last public engagement highlights his lifelong dedication to environmental advocacy. The foundation focuses on advancing planetary health, a cause closely aligned with Redford’s beliefs. In a 2015 interview, he spoke passionately about the need for alternative energy sources, stating,
“We need alternative energy. I think that’s the future. I don’t think oil is the future. This is gonna be an unpopular opinion, but I think it should stay in the ground.”
Redford also shared how he once worked in Chevron oil fields as a young man, adding perspective to his environmental concerns.
He expressed urgency about the sustainability of the Earth, warning,
“We’re so close to polluting the planet beyond anything sustainable.”
Redford hoped the shift toward clean energy would lead not only to environmental protection but also to new industries and job creation. Addressing skeptics who questioned his role as an actor speaking on environmental matters, he said,
“I’ve been an activist since 1969. I’ve been involved in the environment from a standpoint of wanting to draw attention to what an alternative could be rather than what we’ve been having.”
The Enduring Impact of Redford’s Environmental Legacy
Robert Redford’s environmental legacy remains a defining aspect of his life’s work. His final public appearance at an event dedicated to protecting planetary health serves as a powerful symbol of his persistent advocacy. As the world continues to confront climate challenges, Redford’s early activism and messages urging alternative energy sources emphasize the ongoing relevance of his environmental efforts. His contributions continue to inspire activists and policy makers alike in striving for a sustainable future.
