Robert Redford remembered: Film giant and Sundance founder was an ‘artistic gamechanger’

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Jane Fonda is deeply saddened by the passing of Robert Redford, a close friend, frequent co-star, and fellow advocate for environmental causes. Redford, the founder of the Sundance Institute, died on Tuesday at the age of 89, and Fonda says she is heartbroken.

Jane Fonda said she deeply valued Robert Redford, describing him as a wonderful person. She added that he represented the best of America and that his values are worth continuing to fight for. Fonda and Redford acted together in several movies, such as “The Chase” and “Barefoot in the Park.”

Jane Fonda is one of many in Hollywood mourning the death of Robert Redford and celebrating his significant impact on the world of film, both as an actor and behind the scenes. According to publicist Cindi Berger, Redford passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah, a place he cherished and surrounded by his loved ones.

Following the news of Robert Redford’s passing, Oscar winners Ron Howard and Marlee Matlin shared how his Sundance Institute and film festival in Park City, Utah, have been crucial for countless filmmakers. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Howard described Redford as a hugely important cultural figure who launched the festival that really boosted independent filmmaking in America.

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Robert Redford, the celebrated actor and director behind films like ‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,’ ‘The Way We Were,’ and ‘Ordinary People,’ and also the founder of the Sundance Film Festival, has passed away at the age of 89.

In other words, an “artistic gamechanger,” Howard wrote.

Siân Heder, the director of the acclaimed 2021 film “CODA,” credits the film’s success to its debut at the Sundance Film Festival and the festival’s founder, Robert Redford. She explained that “CODA” gained recognition thanks to Sundance, which itself was made possible by Redford.

In 2022, the film “CODA,” directed by Sian Heder and featuring Marlee Matlin, Troy Kotsur, Emilia Jones, and Daniel Durant, won three Oscars, including the award for Best Picture. Apple, the film’s distributor, noted that it was the first Best Picture winner to originate from the Sundance Film Festival since the festival began in the 1980s.

Elizabeth McGovern, an Academy Award nominee, recently recalled her early role in Robert Redford’s film “Ordinary People,” calling it a significant opportunity in a statement to The Times.

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Robert Redford launched my career with my first role in ‘Ordinary People,’ and he set an incredibly high standard for everyone I’ve worked with since. He was remarkably intelligent, empathetic, and understanding, both as a director and as a person. I especially remember when we filmed ‘Ordinary People,’ he scheduled my scenes for the weekends so I could continue my studies at Juilliard during the week. That’s just the kind of thoughtful person he was. I admired him then, and I still do now.

Barbra Streisand shared on Instagram a memory of working with Robert Redford in “The Way We Were.” She described them as very different people who, much like their characters in the film, were constantly curious to learn more about each other.

I was so saddened to hear about Bob’s passing. He truly had it all – charisma, intelligence, and an intensity that just captivated you. He was one of the most gifted actors I’ve ever seen, and a completely unique talent. I feel incredibly lucky to have shared a project with him; he was one of a kind.

Morgan Freeman, who previously acted alongside Robert Redford in the films “Brubaker” (1980) and “An Unfinished Life” (2005), shared a memory of becoming friends with the legendary actor on set. He posted on X (formerly Twitter) that working with Redford again felt like a dream.

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Boulder, Colorado was chosen to host the festival, beating out Cincinnati and Salt Lake City. This move is expected to usher in a new chapter for the event.

Ralph Fiennes, known for his role in “Quiz Show,” described Robert Redford as a patient, kind director with a dry wit. In a statement to The Times, Fiennes said Redford skillfully guided him in the art of screen acting.

Fiennes spoke fondly of his time working with the filmmaker, describing him as a true artist with a unique and thought-provoking vision for American cinema. He also expressed sadness at the loss, saying the film industry feels diminished without him.

Antonio Banderas, Ethan Hawke, and Rita Wilson all posted heartfelt messages online remembering Robert Redford. Banderas, known for his role in “Pain and Glory,” described Redford as a true cinematic icon whose talent will always be remembered and cherished.

Both Hawke and Wilson praised Redford for his dedication to protecting the environment. The actor, who grew up in Santa Monica, actively supported environmental causes both in his films and through his personal advocacy, focusing on issues like Native American rights, opposing offshore oil drilling, and addressing global warming.

Since the 1980s, Robert Redford’s Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival have been based in Park City, Utah. Park City Mayor Nann Worel stated on X (formerly Twitter) that Redford significantly transformed the well-known ski resort town.

Worel shared that he brought incredible art and independent films to our community, opening many of our eyes to their power. He wasn’t afraid to be different and forge his own way, proving that creativity can thrive even when people disagree. His impact was both beautiful and meaningful, and we should all be thankful for it.

Starting in 2027, the Sundance Film Festival will be held in Boulder, Colorado, according to an announcement made earlier this year by Sundance Institute board chair Ebs Burnough. The Sundance Institute also stated that its founder’s original ideas have motivated many artists and changed the landscape of film both in America and globally.

As a lifelong movie lover, hearing about his passing really hit me. It wasn’t just his talent, but everything about him – he was incredibly giving, knew exactly what he wanted to achieve, and always approached things with a playful, questioning attitude. He truly loved making films. And now, those of us entrusted with continuing his work at the Institute feel a huge responsibility, but also a sense of honor. His vision will shape what we do for years to come, and that’s a beautiful thing.

I was so moved to see so many people recognizing his incredible talent – Colman Domingo, Stephen King, and even Lesli Linka Glatter, the President of the Directors Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, all shared their tributes. It really speaks volumes about the impact he had.

Publicist Berger confirmed Redford’s passing and shared that he will be deeply missed. The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.

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2025-09-16 22:31