Robert Redford, Hollywood Icon and Sundance Founder, Dies at 89

Robert Redford, a towering figure in American cinema celebrated for his iconic roles, directorial achievements, and groundbreaking advocacy for independent filmmakers, has died. He passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah, on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. His death was confirmed by his publicist.

Redford’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond. He was a charismatic leading man known for his roles in classic films such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969), “The Sting” (1973), and “All the President’s Men” (1976). His talent was recognized with numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Director for his debut film, “Ordinary People” (1980). He also received an honorary Oscar in 2002 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

From Leading Man to Visionary Director

Born Charles Robert Redford Jr. on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, Redford began his journey in the arts with aspirations of being a painter. After a brief stint at the University of Colorado on a baseball scholarship, he moved to New York to study art and pursue acting. His early career included television appearances and a notable Broadway debut in Neil Simon’s “Barefoot in the Park” (1963).

He transitioned to film, quickly establishing himself as a star with his captivating performances. His role as the Sundance Kid in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” alongside Paul Newman, cemented his status as a Hollywood leading man and gave rise to his iconic nickname. He demonstrated a knack for selecting thoughtful, often socially conscious projects, starring in films like “The Candidate” (1972) and “All the President’s Men,” where he portrayed journalist Bob Woodward.

Redford’s desire to explore different facets of filmmaking led him to directing. His directorial debut, “Ordinary People,” a poignant family drama, surprised many by winning the Academy Award for Best Picture and earning Redford the Oscar for Best Director. He continued to direct acclaimed films such as “A River Runs Through It” (1992) and “Quiz Show” (1994).

The Sundance Legacy: Championing Independent Cinema

Perhaps Redford’s most significant contribution to the film industry was his pioneering work in fostering independent cinema. In 1981, he co-founded the Sundance Institute in Utah, an organization dedicated to supporting emerging filmmakers and fostering artistic independence. This initiative grew into the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival, which became a crucial platform for discovering new talent and showcasing innovative stories that might not have found a home in mainstream Hollywood.

The Sundance Film Festival has been instrumental in launching the careers of countless directors, including Quentin Tarantino, Ava DuVernay, and Steven Soderbergh. Redford envisioned Sundance as a place that broadened the definition of the mainstream, offering a vital avenue for artists working outside the studio system. His commitment to independent voices transformed the landscape of American filmmaking, providing opportunities and stories that enriched the cultural narrative.

A Life Beyond the Screen

Beyond his cinematic achievements, Robert Redford was a passionate environmentalist and a vocal advocate for social and political causes. He lived for decades on a property in Utah, which became the home for the Sundance Institute, and often spoke out on issues of conservation and the environment. In 2016, he was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions to the arts and activism.

Redford’s personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy. He was married twice: first to Lola Van Wagenen, with whom he had four children—Scott, Shauna, David (James), and Amy. Tragically, their first son, Scott, died in infancy from SIDS, and their son James passed away in 2020. He later married German artist Sibylle Szaggars.

A Lasting Impact

Robert Redford’s passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His multifaceted career as a beloved actor, a respected director, and a visionary founder has left an enduring legacy. He not only graced the screen with unforgettable performances but also reshaped the industry by creating a vital space for independent stories and emerging artists to thrive. The impact of his work will continue to be felt for generations, a testament to his profound influence on American culture and cinema.

The entertainment industry and fans worldwide have mourned the loss of this cinematic giant. Meryl Streep, who starred alongside Redford in “Out of Africa,” called him “One of the lions has passed.” Director Ron Howard described Redford as an “artistic gamechanger” and praised him for launching the Sundance Film Festival, which “supercharged America’s Independent Film movement.” Leonardo DiCaprio lauded Redford as “an absolute legend” and a “hero to many in the industry.” The Sundance Institute, in a statement, vowed to continue his mission: “Bob’s vision of a space and a platform for independent voices launched a movement that, over four decades later, has inspired generations of artists and redefined cinema in the US and around the world.” His unique ability to blend art with activism, and his dedication to authentic storytelling, will be remembered as his top achievements.