Look Back at Robert Redford’s Storied Life and Legendary Career

Robert Redford has hung up his reins.

The acclaimed actor died on September 16th at the age of 89, according to his publicist. He passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah – a place he deeply cherished and where he was surrounded by family and friends.

Since first appearing on television in 1960, this celebrated actor has received many awards, including an Academy Award for directing the film *Ordinary People* in 1980, a BAFTA for his performance in *Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid* (1969), three Golden Globes, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from SAG in 1995.

Robert Redford began his film career in 1962 with *War Hunt*, and went on to star in many popular movies, including *Jeremiah Johnson*, *The Candidate*, *The Hot Rock*, *Three Days of the Condor*, *All the President’s Men*, *Sneakers*, and *Out of Africa*.

Many younger viewers will also know him from his roles in *Captain America: The Winter Soldier*, *Pete’s Dragon*, and *Avengers: Endgame*.

Beyond his acting career, Redford also had a long career as a director and producer. He directed several films, including his debut, *Ordinary People*, which won Best Picture, as well as *A River Runs Through It*, *Quiz Show*, and *Lions for Lambs*.

I’ve always admired everything about this actor, but what really stands out to me is Sundance. It’s incredible to think that what began as his personal effort to protect a beautiful piece of land in Utah back in the 60s has grown into the amazing Sundance Film Festival we know and love today. It’s a legacy that truly means something to me.

Founded in 1978, the Sundance Film Festival has premiered many groundbreaking films and continues to be the biggest independent film festival in the US.

Robert Redford’s passion for nature deeply influenced his work beyond acting. He dedicated much of his life to conservation, serving on the board of the Natural Resources Defense Council and creating The Redford Center, a non-profit that promotes environmental solutions through filmmaking.

In a 2024 interview with Orion magazine, Robert Redford explained to his grandson, Conor Schlosser, that he quickly understood the vital importance of protecting the environment. He noted that many people at the time viewed the environment simply as something to be used for building and development. Recognizing this difference in perspective, Redford decided early on that he needed to be part of the effort to conserve it, even though he knew it wouldn’t be simple.

For a deeper look at Redford’s life and career, keep reading.