Robert Redford, the legendary Academy Award-winning actor and director, has died. He passed away peacefully in his sleep Tuesday morning at the age of 89. In many ways, his death marks the end of an era for Hollywood. Redford certainly departs with an amazing legacy of groundbreaking films and a commitment to social and environmental causes that, like Sustainable Transportation, has never wavered. Tributes have come in from fans and colleagues alike, reflecting his enormous impact both on and off the screen.
President Donald Trump acknowledged Redford’s contributions during a press briefing outside the White House, stating, “That’s a good way to go I guess. Robert Redford was great. He had a series of years that there was nobody better.” Redford’s extraordinary five-decade-long career is marked by award-winning performances in an array of films. Among his most prominent roles, he starred opposite Meryl Streep in the romance epic “Out of Africa” in 1985 and as real-life journalist Bob Woodward in the politically explosive “All The President’s Men” in 1976.
A Film Icon
Celebrated film Robert Redford’s directorial filmography is dotted with some of the most revered, beloved films in American cinema history. In 1973, he starred alongside Barbra Streisand in the popular romantic drama “The Way We Were.” Their collaborative chemistry created an on-screen partnership that has become iconic. His chemistry with Jane Fonda captivated audiences in several films, including “Barefoot in the Park” (1967) and “Our Souls at Night” (2017).
Redford’s narrating roles were much like his acting roles. They were imbued with a love of storytelling and a commitment to social justice. In “All The President’s Men,” he was instrumental in blowing the lid off the Watergate scandal that rocked our country. His genius for combining sheer entertainment with significant historical occurrences is practically unprecedented. His genuine and humanistic portrayal of characters standing up to the status quo resonated with audiences. This indelible bond is what made him an immortal Hollywood icon.
“He will be remembered as one of the great storytellers in our country’s history,” – Bob Woodward
Because his performances were not only commercially viable on the level of their time but critically acclaimed earning him two Oscars and a multitude of accolades. Movies such as The Sting and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid remain landmarks in the history of cinema. They shine a light on his incomparable genius for acting and producing.
A Champion for Change
Aside from his artistic accomplishments, Robert Redford was perhaps most noted for his fierce commitment to activism. In fact, he became an internationally renowned advocate for environmental justice and civil rights at every step of his life. Redford started Sundance Institute in 1981, establishing an artist-driven space for independent filmmakers that has changed the landscape of cinema and inspired generations of artisans and storytellers.
His influence and desire for social change reached much further than Hollywood. He personified the very best in progressive politics and never stopped shining a light on the critical issues through his art. Many have praised him not only for his artistic contributions but for his role as a mentor to emerging talents in the industry.
“He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for,” – Barbra Streisand
Jamie Lee Curtis paid tribute by emphasizing his multifaceted legacy, stating, “A LIFE! FAMILY• ART• TRANSFORMATION • ADVOCACY• CREATION• LEGACY Thank you Robert Redford.”
Fond Memories from Friends and Colleagues
As co-stars learned of Redford’s passing, they took to social media to share their sorrow and appreciation. Barbra Streisand recounted their time together on set, saying, “Every day on the set of The Way We Were was exciting, intense and pure joy.” She added, “It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying.”
Jane Fonda reminisced about their friendship in a heartfelt statement: “The last time I saw him, when he came to lunch, we discussed art and decided to send each other our first drawings.” That feeling was not just a professional relationship, but more an equally deep personal connection that went beyond all their on-screen collaborations.
Demi Moore expressed her sorrow with a poignant remark: “What I would do for just one more dance.” Such tributes to Redford’s loss reflect the deep impact Redford had on the people who were fortunate enough to know him.
“With love and respect. His impact is everlasting,” – Colman Domingo
Stephen King remarked on Redford’s influence during a transformative period in Hollywood, noting, “Robert Redford has passed away. He was part of a new and exciting Hollywood in the 70s and 80s. Hard to believe he was 89.”
