Robert Redford, the Academy Award-winning actor, director, and founder of the Sundance Institute, died on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. He passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah, surrounded by family. His death marks the end of a profoundly influential era in American cinema, one shaped not only by his performances on screen but also by his far-reaching impact on independent filmmaking and environmental advocacy.
Redford’s film career began in earnest in the early 1960s, but it was his breakout role in the 1969 classic Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, alongside Paul Newman, that catapulted him into stardom. The film’s enormous success established him as a leading man of his generation and introduced a combination of rugged charm and thoughtful masculinity that would become his hallmark. He followed this with acclaimed roles in films like The Sting, The Way We Were, Three Days of the Condor, and All the President’s Men, where he portrayed journalist Bob Woodward in the dramatization of the Watergate scandal. These films not only solidified Redford’s star power but also reflected his deep interest in political and social issues—an interest that would define much of his career.
As a director, Redford’s debut film Ordinary People in 1980 was met with widespread acclaim and earned him the Academy Award for Best Director. The film’s intimate, understated portrayal of family grief and trauma showcased Redford’s sensitivity as a storyteller and marked the beginning of a prolific career behind the camera. He went on to direct several other notable films, including A River Runs Through It, Quiz Show, and The Horse Whisperer. Each demonstrated his ability to blend compelling human stories with strong visual storytelling and moral undercurrents.
Yet perhaps Redford’s most enduring contribution to film came not through his own performances or directorial achievements, but through his unwavering support for independent cinema. In 1981, he founded the Sundance Institute, which would give rise to the Sundance Film Festival—today regarded as the premier showcase for independent filmmakers from around the world. Under Redford’s vision, Sundance became more than just a film festival; it was a creative sanctuary for emerging talent and a counterbalance to Hollywood’s commercial machinery. The Institute provided mentorship, development grants, and networking opportunities for thousands of directors, writers, and producers whose voices might otherwise have gone unheard.
Redford was also a dedicated environmentalist throughout his life. Raised in Los Angeles but drawn to the vast open spaces of the American West, he settled in Utah and became a vocal advocate for conservation, clean energy, and public lands protection. He worked with organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council and spoke frequently about the need for sustainable policies. His passion for the environment informed much of his work, both on and off screen, and helped bridge the worlds of art and activism in ways few other celebrities have managed.
The announcement of Redford’s passing triggered an outpouring of tributes from across the film industry and beyond. Meryl Streep, who worked with Redford on Out of Africa, called him “one of the lions of American cinema,” praising his depth as an actor and his generosity as a collaborator. Jane Fonda, a longtime friend, said she was heartbroken, describing Redford as a man of integrity, intellect, and enduring creativity. Younger generations of filmmakers, many of whom got their start through Sundance, shared their gratitude for his support and for the platform he built to nurture independent storytelling.
Redford is survived by his wife, Sibylle Szaggars Redford, a painter and environmental artist; his daughters Shauna and Amy Redford; and several grandchildren. He was predeceased by his two sons, Scott and James. Those who knew him personally describe him as fiercely private, grounded, and deeply committed to his ideals—qualities that carried through his career and his relationships.
As the film world and wider public mourn his passing, Robert Redford’s legacy remains firmly etched into the cultural fabric of the United States. His performances continue to resonate, his directorial work remains deeply respected, and the Sundance Institute continues to shape the future of film. More than just an actor or filmmaker, Redford was a pioneer—a visionary who reshaped the industry and helped generations of storytellers find their voice. His life’s work stands as a testament to the enduring power of art, integrity, and purpose.
