Leonardo DiCaprio pays tribute to ‘absolute legend’ Robert Redford as he credits late actor with inspiring his environmentalism

Leonardo DiCaprio said Robert Redford inspired his passion for protecting the environment while remembering the actor after his passing.

Hollywood is saddened by the news of Robert Redford’s death. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday at the age of 89.

Leonardo DiCaprio, who previously acted with Robert Redford in the 2008 film *Body of Lies*, immediately shared a tribute online. He later spoke fondly of the actor while attending the London premiere of his latest film, *One Battle After Another*.

When asked about Robert Redford on the red carpet, he shared that he had many thoughts on the matter, but primarily expressed deep sadness over the loss.

‘I admired that man very much, not only as an actor, but as a director and an environmentalist.’ 

DiCaprio was then asked if Redford had inspired his environmentalism

Okay, so I was reading this interview, and get this – apparently, he was actually a member of the NRDC! Can you believe it? The Natural Resources Defense Council – that amazing environmental group? I’m even more obsessed now, knowing he cares about the planet too!

He’s a strong supporter of indigenous rights and has successfully protected significant land areas in Utah. Plus, he founded the renowned Sundance Film Festival.

‘The man is an absolute legend and an inspiration, and it’s a huge loss.’

Robert Redford, known for his commitment to environmental causes, also organized the Sundance Symposium on Global Climate Change.

In 1975, while living in Utah, he spearheaded the opposition to a proposed power plant.

He went on to found the Institute for Resource Management, an organization dedicated to helping different groups find common ground and solutions that would protect the environment.

The star of ‘The Way We Were’ also helped start the Redford Center, a US non-profit that supports films focused on environmental issues.

Leonardo DiCaprio has been a passionate voice for environmental protection for years, consistently highlighting climate change as the biggest danger to humanity.

A post shared by Leonardo DiCaprio (@leonardodicaprio)

Recently, he’s faced criticism for seemingly contradicting his environmental advocacy with his own extravagant way of living.

Interestingly, both actors have portrayed the same character, Jay Gatsby. Redford played him in the 1974 film adaptation of *The Great Gatsby*, while DiCaprio took on the role in the 2013 version.

Earlier in the day, DiCaprio paid tribute to Redford on Instagram.  

Leonardo DiCaprio, an actor known for his environmental work and support of the arts, started by sharing a vintage black and white photo of Robert Redford.

He was a remarkably talented individual whose dedication to protecting the environment and motivating others was truly inspiring. His legacy will continue to make a difference for many years.

President Trump also honored Robert Redford, stating that ‘there was no one better’ than the iconic actor.

I still can’t believe it… Robert Redford, gone. He passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, up in the beautiful Utah mountains. And can you *believe* what Trump said? He actually said it was ‘a good way to go’! It’s just… disrespectful. Robert Redford deserved so much more respect. I’m heartbroken.

Speaking to Reuters, Trump, 79, said: ‘Well, it’s a good way to go, I guess.

‘Robert Redford was great. He had a series of years where there was nobody better.’

I was really curious to hear what Mr. Trump thought was Robert Redford’s best movie, and his answer was pretty interesting. He pointed out that Redford’s done *so* many great films – he estimated around seven or eight of them are truly fantastic. It wasn’t a specific title, but a recognition of Redford’s overall impressive filmography.

‘There was a period when he was the hottest.’

Robert Redford was a major Hollywood star, known for his roles in popular and critically successful films like *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid*, *All the President’s Men*, and *The Sting*.

Beyond his work as an actor and director, Robert Redford significantly influenced the film world by co-founding the Sundance Film Festival in Utah.

Following the news of his death, Hollywood is remembering Robert Redford, with director Ron Howard – known for ‘A Beautiful Mind’ – calling him a truly innovative and influential artist.

He posted on X, paying tribute to Robert Redford as a hugely impactful figure in culture. He praised Redford’s artistic decisions as an actor, producer, and director, and especially highlighted the Sundance Film Festival, which he said greatly boosted independent filmmaking in America, calling him an ‘Artistic Gamechanger’.

Meryl Streep, who acted alongside Robert Redford in both *Out of Africa* (1985) and *Lions for Lambs* (2007), shared a heartfelt message: ‘A wonderful person is gone. Rest peacefully, my dear friend.’

Author Stephen King has also reflected on the impact Redford had on the movie industry.

He reported that Robert Redford had died at the age of 89. Redford was a key figure in the vibrant and innovative Hollywood scene of the 1970s and 80s, and his passing is surprising.

Star Trek icon William Shatner said: ‘Condolences to the family of Robert Redford.’

I was so saddened to hear about Robert Redford. As a longtime fan, I always thought he was a truly brilliant and terrific actor – honestly, a legend. James Dreyfus said it perfectly: he *was* truly legendary, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s a real loss.

Colman Domingo thanked Redford for his ‘everlasting impact’ on the movie industry.

He expressed his love and admiration, thanking Robert Redford for his lasting influence, which he believes will be felt for many years to come. He concluded with a message of rest in peace.

Marlee Matlin, known for her role in the Oscar-winning film CODA, fondly remembered Robert Redford and credited the Sundance Film Festival with helping the movie win its three awards.

Our movie, CODA, gained widespread recognition thanks to the Sundance Film Festival. And we were able to participate in Sundance because of Robert Redford’s support.

‘A genius has passed. RIP Robert Redford.’

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2025-09-17 10:23