One of cinema’s most enduring icons, Robert Redford, has died aged 89.
The Oscar-winning actor, director and activist passed away peacefully in his sleep in Provo, Utah, his management agency Rogers & Cowan PMK confirmed. He was, they said, “in the place he loved surrounded by those he loved”.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Redford starred opposite the greatest names of his generation, including Barbra Streisand, Paul Newman and Jane Fonda. From his breakout role in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) to the political thriller All the President’s Men (1976) and the sweeping romance Out of Africa (1985), he cemented his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most magnetic and versatile leading men.
Though often celebrated for his acting, Redford’s Oscar win came as a director for Ordinary People (1980). His influence extended beyond the screen as the founder of the Sundance Film Festival, which grew into a global platform for independent cinema.
Tributes poured in swiftly following the news. Meryl Streep, his Out of Africa co-star, described him as a “lion”, while director Ron Howard called him a “tremendously influential cultural figure” and an “artistic gamechanger”. Author Stephen King wrote that Redford was “part of a new and exciting Hollywood”, while Oscar winner Marlee Matlin remembered him as a “genius” whose vision gave rise to Sundance.
Even political figures weighed in. US President Donald Trump, despite past criticism from Redford, acknowledged his cinematic legacy, telling reporters: “Robert Redford was great. He had a series of years where there was nobody better.”
Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1936, Redford endured early tragedy when his mother and newborn twin sisters died during childbirth, leaving him an only child. He pursued theatre before moving into film, where he became a global star. In 2016, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack Obama, recognising his contribution to American culture and society.
Redford is survived by his wife, artist Sibylle Szaggars Redford, and his children Shauna, James and Amy. He was predeceased by his son Scott, who died in infancy.
For many, Redford will be remembered not only for his golden screen presence but also for his deep commitment to storytelling, the environment and artistic freedom. As Streep wrote simply: “One of the lions has passed. Rest in peace my lovely friend.”
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