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Americas Summit Robert Redford interview |
Robert Redford, the Oscar-winning actor, director, environmental activist, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, has died at the age of 89. According to his longtime publicist Cindi Berger, Redford passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 16, 2025, at his beloved Sundance home in the Utah mountains, surrounded by family.
From Hollywood Stardom to Indie Cinema Pioneer
Redford’s career spanned more than six decades, marked by unforgettable performances in classics such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), The Sting (1973), and All the President’s Men (1976).
In 1980, he made his directorial debut with Ordinary People, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Director.
Yet his most enduring legacy may be the creation of the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, which helped transform independent cinema into a global force. Often described as the “godfather of indie film,” Redford provided a platform for emerging filmmakers who might otherwise have been overlooked by mainstream Hollywood.
A Life Beyond the Spotlight
Despite his fame, Redford was known for his deep commitment to privacy. He chose to live largely away from Hollywood, retreating to his Utah estate where he cultivated both his artistic and environmental passions.
A dedicated environmentalist, he spent decades advocating for conservation, renewable energy, and indigenous rights, often using his celebrity status to amplify urgent ecological causes.
Tributes Pour in From Across the Globe
Redford’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from actors, directors, political figures, and activists. Colleagues remembered him not only as a charismatic leading man and gifted filmmaker, but also as a visionary who reshaped American cinema and inspired generations of storytellers.
For many, his legacy lies not only in his films but in the opportunities he created for others through Sundance, ensuring that bold and diverse voices had a place in the film industry.
Remembering a Hollywood Icon
Robert Redford leaves behind an indelible mark on film, culture, and activism. His passing closes the chapter on a towering figure whose influence stretched far beyond the screen.
As tributes continue to pour in, one truth remains clear: Redford’s vision, artistry, and dedication to both storytelling and the environment will continue to resonate for generations.
Sources: PBS NewsHour, The Washington Post, CBS News, The Guardian.
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