September 16, 2025

Remembering Robert Redford: A Hollywood Icon

News Summary

Robert Redford, the Hollywood legend, passed away at the age of 89. Renowned for his remarkable acting career, he also made significant contributions as an activist. Known for iconic films and co-founding the Sundance Film Festival, Redford leaves behind a legacy of excellence in cinema and advocacy for social and environmental causes.

Utah – Hollywood legend Robert Redford passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. He died at his home in the mountains of Utah, surrounded by his loved ones. Redford was celebrated not only for his remarkable career in film but also for his significant contributions as an activist.

Born Charles Robert Redford Jr. on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, Redford rose to prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s, becoming known for his golden boy looks and captivating performances. He starred in iconic films such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969), “The Sting” (1973), “All the President’s Men” (1976), and “Ordinary People” (1980). His roles in these films not only showcased his acting prowess but also established him as a leading figure in the industry.

Redford’s illustrious career was marked by numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards: Best Director for “Ordinary People” and an honorary Oscar awarded in 2002. He also received three Golden Globe Awards, including the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement in 1994. Further solidifying his legacy, Redford was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 by President Barack Obama.

In addition to his acting and directing success, Redford co-founded the Sundance Film Institute and established the Sundance Film Festival in 1981, which has grown into a prominent event supporting independent filmmakers and showcasing innovative works in cinema.

Redford’s journey into the world of acting began after he graduated from Van Nuys High School in 1954 and subsequently attended the University of Colorado Boulder on a baseball scholarship. He briefly studied painting in Europe before shifting his focus to acting. Redford graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and made his Broadway debut in “Tall Story” in 1959. He further captivated audiences with his performance in “Barefoot in the Park” (1963).

His breakout role came with “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”, a film that became the highest-grossing Western of its time. Redford frequently collaborated with director Sydney Pollack, producing notable films such as “The Way We Were” (1973) and “The Electric Horseman” (1979). Redford’s directorial debut, “Ordinary People”, gained widespread acclaim and won four Academy Awards, highlighting his ability to navigate the intricacies of family dynamics and grief.

Throughout his career, Redford often chose roles that reflected his political beliefs and social consciousness, addressing themes of environmentalism and civil rights. His advocacy extended beyond film, as he actively supported environmental issues and Native American rights.

Redford’s personal life included a marriage to Lola Van Wagenen from 1958 to 1985, during which they had four children, including sons Scott and David, both of whom passed away. He later married Sibylle Szaggars in 2009, and the couple remained together until his death.

Although Redford expressed his intention to retire from acting following his role in “The Old Man & the Gun” (2018), he made a return for a cameo in the series “Dark Winds.” Over a career spanning more than six decades, Robert Redford appeared in more than 50 films, cementing his status as a cultural icon and leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema and activism.

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Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER

ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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