Hollywood legend Robert Redford passed away peacefully at his Utah home. He was known for iconic roles, visionary filmmaking, and founding Sundance.
Hollywood legend Robert Redford, known for his classic roles and influential work as a filmmaker and environmentalist, has died at the age of 89. According to a statement by his family, the Oscar-winning actor passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 16, 2025, at his home in Sundance, Utah.
A Quiet Goodbye in the Mountains
Cindi Berger, CEO of Rogers & Cowan PMK, confirmed Redford’s passing in an official statement:
“Robert Redford passed away on September 16 at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah — the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved. He will be missed greatly. The family requests privacy.”
A Career That Shaped American Cinema
Starting his acting journey on Broadway in 1959, Redford went on to become a defining figure in Hollywood. He made his big screen debut in Tall Story (1960) and became a household name with his breakthrough role in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969).
Some of his most iconic films include:
- The Sting (1973)
- The Way We Were (1973)
- All the President’s Men (1976)
- Three Days of the Condor (1975)
- The Electric Horseman (1979)
From Actor to Acclaimed Director
In 1980, Redford won an Academy Award for Best Director for Ordinary People, further cementing his influence in the film industry. He later received:
- An Honorary Oscar (2002)
- A Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement (Venice Film Festival, 2017)
- An Honorary César Award (2019)
Founder of the Sundance Film Festival
In 1978, Redford launched the Sundance Film Festival, now considered one of the most prestigious platforms for independent cinema. Held annually in Utah, Sundance helped launch the careers of numerous filmmakers and has become a cornerstone of global film culture.
Environmental Activism & Legacy
Beyond film, Redford was a passionate environmentalist. In 2005, he co-founded The Redford Center with his late son James, focusing on environmental storytelling and advocacy. His activism spanned decades, consistently using his platform to advocate for climate action and indigenous rights.
Final Roles Before Retirement
Before officially retiring in 2018, Redford’s final performances included:
- Our Souls at Night (2017), opposite Jane Fonda
- The Old Man & the Gun (2018)
- A cameo as Alexander Pierce in Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Personal Life & Family
Redford was married twice—first to historian Lola Van Wagenen (1958–1985), with whom he had four children. In 2009, he married artist Sibylle Szaggars. His son James Redford passed away in 2020.
