Jane Fonda Mourns Death of “Beautiful” Friend Robert Redford

Jane Fonda is reflecting on her bond with Robert Redford.

After hearing about the death of the acclaimed actor at age 89 on September 16th, Jane-who acted alongside Robert in four films-shared how heartbroken she was.

She told TopMob News she was deeply saddened to learn of Bob’s passing. “I’m heartbroken,” she said, adding that he was a wonderful person and she will miss him dearly.

Jane spoke fondly of the veteran political and environmental advocate, saying, “He represented the kind of America we must continue to strive for.”

Robert and Jane first collaborated in the 1966 movie *The Chase*, where they played a married couple whose lives are disrupted when Robert’s character returns home after escaping from prison.

This wasn’t the only time Redford and Newman played a couple on screen. They reunited for romantic roles in the films *Barefoot in the Park* (1967), *The Electric Horseman* (1979), and later, in *Our Souls at Night*, released in 2017.

It was that last film that was especially meaningful for them both.

I’ll never forget what Jane said in her 2017 NPR interview about reuniting with Robert on screen. She explained it felt like a beautiful full circle for her career. She mentioned *The Chase* and *Barefoot in the Park* early on, and then, decades later, getting to do *Our Souls at Night* felt like the perfect ending chapter. She truly felt it was a special way to bookend her life’s work, and it clearly meant the world to her.

As for Robert, he “felt the same way” as his costar.

The actor, known for his role in *Hot Rock*, explained that working with her felt effortless over time. They simply fell into a comfortable and natural working style without needing to overthink things or have lengthy conversations. It just happened organically.

He thought Jane was ideal for the role of Addie, describing Addie as a powerful character and noting that Jane herself also possesses that same energy.

Now that Robert has passed away, Jane isn’t alone in her grief. Many of his friends and colleagues are also deeply saddened by his loss, both on a personal and professional level.

Meryl Streep, known for her work with Robert Redford in the film *Out of Africa*, announced the passing of one of the lions used in the movie, saying, “Rest in peace, my lovely friend.”

Marlee Matlin highlighted how Robert Redford and the Sundance Film Festival-which he started in 1978-significantly influenced her life and career.

Our movie, *CODA*, gained recognition thanks to the Sundance Film Festival. And Sundance happened because of Robert Redford, a true visionary who has passed away.

For a closer look back at Robert’s life, read on.