Robert Redford Dead at 89

Nora Geoghegan

Staff Writer

On Sept. 16, legendary actor, director, and activist Robert Redford passed away peacefully at the age of 89.

Redford was known for his roles in movies such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”, “All the President’s Men”, as well as “The Great Gatsby.” He also worked as a director for movies like, “Lions for Lambs” and “Ordinary People” which he won an Oscar for Best Director in 1981.

His effortless charm, creativity and charisma heightened him as a household name and legend within the film industry. He also was the co-founder of the Sundance Film Festival, which showcases independent films and artists. NBC notes that this festival was able to launch the careers of now household name directors such as Quentin Tarantino and Paul Thomas Anderson.

Redford’s colleague and close collaborator, actress and activist Jane Fonda told NBC News, “It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying.” She continues by saying, “He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.” Fonda’s words have resonated with the public since Redford’s passing given his legacy and high public praise.

In addition to being a film icon, Redford dedicated himself to a life of activism. He was an advocate for environmental protection, indigenous and Native American rights, independent film making, human rights, as well as political advocacy; particularly in supporting democratic candidates, such as Joe Biden and Jimmy Carter, as well as lobbying for legislation to address the climate crisis. It was through his work with activism and film that President Obama rewarded him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

Redford discussed the coupling of film making and activism in an interview with Variety in 2009. He states, “I believe there is a role for activist filmmaking. I think it is wholly appropriate to focus on social cultural issues of our time- particularly documentaries, as the truth seems harder to find in the traditional avenues of media and journalism.”

Redford’s film work has also solidified himself as a style icon and heartthrob throughout his career, further elevating his status as an icon and a household name. Redford’s work and contributions to the film industry and social activism solidifies him as an icon, and in the cultural zeitgeist.