Jane Fonda will spearhead a tribute to her late co-star Robert Redford at the 2026 Turner Classic Movies (TCM) Classic Film Festival, which begins on April 30. The opening gala will feature a special screening of their 1967 romantic comedy Barefoot in the Park at the TCL Chinese Theatre, marking the start of the four-day event that runs through May 3.
Honoring Robert Redford’s Career and Legacy
The festival pays homage to Robert Redford, who passed away in September 2025 at age 89. As an acclaimed actor and filmmaker, Redford’s achievements will be celebrated alongside the screening of Barefoot in the Park, a film written by Neil Simon and directed by Gene Saks, which starred Redford and Fonda.
Festival organisers have also announced additional honourees for the 2026 edition, including actress Barbara Hershey, songwriter Paul Williams, and film curator Bruce Goldstein, all recognized for their significant contributions to cinema.
Special Guests and Screenings Highlight Festival Lineup
Barbara Hershey will appear for screenings of two late 1980s films: Woody Allen’s Hannah and Her Sisters and Chris Menges’s A World Apart. Paul Williams will be present for showings of The Muppet Movie, known for his Oscar-nominated song “Rainbow Connection,” as well as Elaine May’s Ishtar. Bruce Goldstein will receive the Robert Osborne Award before the screening of Federico Fellini’s Nights of Cabiria, a film he personally selected for the event.
Festival Host Reflects on Opening Night Significance
Ben Mankiewicz, the official host representing Turner Classic Movies, emphasized the importance of the opening night tribute. He stated,
“Opening night sets the tone for the entire festival, and having Jane Fonda with us to honour her friend and co-star Robert Redford makes this year especially meaningful.”
Describing the film’s place in Hollywood history, Mankiewicz added,
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Barefoot in the Park represents a pivotal moment in Hollywood history, and it’s a fitting way to begin our celebration.
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He further noted the festival’s role in bridging current audiences with the industry’s past legacy through tributes and award presentations.
This year’s theme, ‘The World Comes to Hollywood’, reflects the global creativity and ambition that built the film capital of the world and continues to shape it today.
Looking Ahead to the Full Festival Program
Jane Fonda, Barbara Hershey, Paul Williams, and Bruce Goldstein are the first announced guests for this year’s TCM Classic Film Festival. Organisers have confirmed that more details on additional guests and film screenings will be unveiled soon on the official event website, in anticipation of the opening night celebrations and the festival’s full program.
