Robert Redford, the legendary actor, director, and activist, passed away at the age of 89 in his sleep at his Sundance home, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking work in film, activism, and his role in establishing the Sundance Film Festival, while tributes pour in from fans and industry colleagues, including Jane Fonda, celebrating his profound impact on both Hollywood and society.

Charles Robert Redford Jr. was born on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, a city that would go on to serve as the backdrop for many chapters of his extraordinary life.

A multi-talented American actor, director, and producer, Redford left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, winning numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA, five Golden Globe Awards, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

But Redford’s impact went far beyond Hollywood, shaping culture, politics, and film history for nearly seven decades.

Growing up with a mix of Irish, Scottish, and English roots, Redford’s early life was marked by personal challenges.

His family struggled with financial instability, and his parents, Martha and Charles Redford Sr.

, faced difficulties of their own, but it was in these formative years that Redford developed his drive and ambition.

Throughout his youth, he was drawn to sports and art, but it wasn’t until his time at the University of Colorado that he discovered his passion for acting.

It was in the world of performance that Redford would go on to find his calling, and it would eventually transform him into one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.

Before achieving global fame, Redford made his mark in television with appearances on shows like Alfred Hitchcock Presents and The Twilight Zone.

But his breakthrough came in 1963 when he debuted on Broadway in Neil Simon’s Barefoot in the Park.

The role of a newlywed husband marked the beginning of a career that would soon captivate audiences across the world.

By 1967, Redford became a household name, playing the charming and daring lead in Barefoot in the Park, cementing his reputation as a heartthrob and versatile actor.

But it was Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) that truly made Redford a star, with his portrayal of the roguish outlaw opposite Paul Newman earning him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Roles in Jeremiah Johnson (1972), The Sting (1973), and The Candidate (1972) followed, all contributing to his growing legendary status.

But even in the midst of his film career, Redford never strayed too far from his passions for political activism and social causes.

In 1981, Redford founded the Sundance Institute, which would go on to host the iconic Sundance Film Festival—the largest independent film festival in the U.S.Redford’s vision for independent cinema revolutionized the industry, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers and offering a more diverse, uncensored voice to the world of film.

The Festival became synonymous with cutting-edge, thought-provoking storytelling and was integral in launching the careers of countless filmmakers.

Beyond his achievements in the film industry, Redford was also known for his dedication to political activism.

Throughout his life, he spoke out on a wide range of issues, from environmental conservation to Native American rights and LGBT advocacy.

His political stance was often seen as part of his larger worldview, one that sought to challenge the status quo and promote fairness and sustainability.

He used his celebrity not just for personal gain but as a platform for change, leveraging his influence to push for social justice and environmental causes that aligned with his personal values.

But despite his global fame and activism, Redford remained a deeply private figure, guarding the details of his personal life from the public eye.

His marriage to Lola Van Wagenen in 1958 was a source of both joy and heartache.

They had four children—Scott, Shauna, David, and Amy.

Tragically, Redford’s son, Scott, passed away at just 2½ months from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), an event that would forever change the course of his life.

Redford’s relationship with his family was deeply important, and despite the immense public pressure, he remained close to his children, including his son, Hugo, and his seven grandchildren.

In 2020, Redford’s health began to decline, and after a lifetime of accomplishments, his passing on September 16, 2025, was met with an outpouring of love and tributes.

He died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Sundance, Utah, at the age of 89.

One of the most significant tributes came from his frequent co-star and dear friend, Jane Fonda, who wrote, “He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way.

He stood for an America that we have to keep fighting for.”

As the world mourns his loss, the legacy of Robert Redford continues to resonate.

His impact on film, his dedication to activism, and his indomitable spirit will live on in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.

With his passing, Hollywood loses not just an actor or director, but a visionary whose contributions transcended cinema.

Redford’s journey from a young man with big dreams in Santa Monica to a global cultural icon is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose—his legacy will continue to shape the world for generations to come.