Robert Redford, one of Hollywood’s most respected actors and directors, passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. He died peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah. His publicist, Cindi Berger, confirmed the news, though the exact cause has not been shared yet. It is believed he passed away in his sleep.
The news of his death left a huge void in the film industry. Tributes poured in from across the world, with stars like Meryl Streep, Jane Fonda, Ron Howard, Marlee Matlin, and Stephen King honoring his legacy and remembering him as a true giant of cinema.
Robert Redford’s career stretched over six decades. He started with small roles in the early 1960s before finding his big break in the war drama War Hunt. Soon after, he appeared in films like Inside Daisy Clover, This Property Is Condemned, and Barefoot in the Park, often alongside Jane Fonda. His stardom, however, was cemented with the 1969 classic Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, where he starred with Paul Newman. The film became iconic and gave Redford his lasting association with the name “Sundance.”
From there, he went on to deliver unforgettable performances in The Sting, The Great Gatsby, Lions for Lambs, and many more. He even stepped into the Marvel world, playing Alexander Pierce in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and making a cameo in Avengers: Endgame.
But Redford was not just an actor. He proved his brilliance behind the camera too. His directorial debut, Ordinary People, won him the Academy Award for Best Director. He went on to direct films like The Milagro Beanfield War, A River Runs Through It, and The Horse Whisperer. Beyond film, he founded the Sundance Film Festival, which became the world’s biggest platform for independent cinema, earning him the title of the godfather of indie films.
Outside Hollywood, Redford dedicated much of his life to activism. He was an outspoken environmentalist and stood up for Native American rights, LGBT rights, and other social causes. He leaves behind his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, and four children, including James Redford and Amy Redford.
Robert Redford’s passing marks the end of an era. He was more than just a movie star—he was a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a voice for change. His work, both on and off screen, has left a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
