Robert Redford, a Hollywood legend, Oscar-winning director and passionate advocate for the environment, has passed away at the age of 89.
In a statement to media, his publicist Cindi Berger said the actor died “at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah – the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved.”
No cause of death was shared.
Redford was a star of the 60s and 70s, leading films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All The President’s Men.
By the 80s and 90s, Redford had not only cemented his status as a legend of the industry, he also went on to win countless awards including the Best Director Oscar for Ordinary People, five Golden Globes and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award.
He was so passionate about cinema, and particularly independent projects, he co-founded the Sundance Film Festival to help unearth creative talents.
And when he wasn’t working in film, Redford was using his platform to advocate for environmental issues, indigenous rights and more.
Hollywood has taken to social media today to mourn the cinema icon:
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Samuel L. Jackson who worked on several films with Redford, said on social media, “Sometimes your heroes don’t disappoint and truly are as great as you imagined.”
Jane Fonda said she cried all morning after hearing news of Redford’s passing. On Instagram, she wrote, “Bob made a real difference in all good ways. He represented an America we must now fight to protect. He revolutionised independent film making and made us swoon in so many movies.”
Barbra Streisand described Redford as “charismatic, intelligent, intense, awlays interesting – and one of the finest actors ever… He was one of a kind.”
Sarayu Blue shared a sweet story about working with Redford in Lions for Lambs where she had a minor role: “There is much to be said about Robert Redford’s legacy and all he did to preserve, support, and protect storytelling and film. But in a time when algorithms, likes and followers, seem to increasingly be prioritised over humanity, perhaps the legacy I’m most celebrating in his wake, is the way he didn’t seem to operate as though there was a hierarchy. he didn’t play the popularity game. He just loved making movies. And he saw every one of us as a group of artists, making art together.”
Ethan Hawke said Redford was “our ultimate champion of independent film, relentless adovcate for authentic storytelling and fiercely passionate environmentalist.”
Leonardo DiCaprio paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “Actor, activist, passionate environmentalist, and champion of the arts. His unwavering commitment to protecting our planet and inspiring change matched his immense talent. His impact will endure for generations to come.”
(Feature Image Credit: Andrea Raffin/Shutterstock.com)
