A Hollywood Legend Is Gone, But Trump’s Mixed Feelings Spark Reflection on Legacy and Division

In a surprising twist of fate, the passing of Hollywood icon Robert Redford has prompted President Donald Trump to reflect on the actor’s illustrious career, despite their well-documented political differences.

Redford, known for his roles in classic films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Candidate, passed away on September 16, 2025, in his beloved Utah home at the age of 89.

His death has sparked a range of reactions, but none quite as curious as Trump’s.

As the president departed the White House for a diplomatic visit to the U.K., he offered his thoughts on Redford’s legacy, showcasing a blend of admiration and avoidance of their contentious past.

A Legacy Remembered

“Robert Redford was great; he had a series of years where there was nobody better,” Trump remarked, acknowledging the actor’s significant contributions to cinema.

However, while he praised Redford’s body of work, he notably refrained from naming a specific favorite film.

“Well, you have a lot of them … I’d say he made seven or eight great movies, they were really great. There was a period of time when he was the hottest,” Trump continued, expressing a vague appreciation for Redford’s impact on the film industry.

Yet, the president’s comments took a peculiar turn when he was informed of Redford’s peaceful passing in his sleep.

“That’s a good way to go, I guess,” Trump replied, a statement that seemed both dismissive and oddly reflective.

Ignoring the Elephant in the Room

Despite the apparent admiration, Trump’s remarks glossed over the elephant in the room: Redford’s vocal criticisms of his presidency.

The actor, a staunch supporter of the Democratic Party, was known for his outspoken views on American politics and had publicly denounced Trump on multiple occasions.

In a 2019 op-ed for The Washington Post, Redford described Trump as someone who “degrades everything he touches,” highlighting his concerns about the state of American democracy under Trump’s leadership.

“It is painfully clear we have a president who degrades everything he touches, a person who does not understand (or care?) that his duty is to defend our democracy,” Redford wrote, expressing his disapproval of Trump’s approach to governance.

In another op-ed for NBC News, Redford warned of a “dictator-like attack” on American values during Trump’s presidency, a sentiment that resonated with many who opposed the administration.

He later endorsed Joe Biden for president in a 2020 column for CNN, further solidifying his stance against Trump’s policies.

A Complex Relationship

The juxtaposition of Trump’s praise for Redford and the actor’s scathing critiques of him paints a complex picture of their relationship.

While Trump acknowledged Redford’s talent and contributions to film, he sidestepped any discussion of their political differences, perhaps indicating an awareness of the actor’s significant impact on public discourse.

Redford’s passing serves as a reminder of the deep divisions in American society, particularly in the realm of politics and celebrity.

A Fond Farewell

As the world mourns the loss of Robert Redford, it is essential to remember him not only for his film legacy but also for his commitment to social and environmental causes.

Redford’s life was marked by a dedication to authenticity, creativity, and advocacy, values that resonated with many of his fans and colleagues.

His death has left a void in Hollywood and beyond, and while Trump may have offered a measured response, the impact of Redford’s life and work will continue to inspire generations to come.

In the words of Cindi Berger, chief executive of the public relations firm Rogers & Cowan PMK, “He will be missed greatly. The family requests privacy.”

As we reflect on Redford’s legacy, it is clear that his contributions to cinema and society will not be forgotten, even amidst the complexities of political discourse.