Table of Contents
Introduction
The world is mourning the loss of Robert Redford. The beloved actor, director, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped Hollywood, independent cinema, and activism. So, did Robert Redford die? Yes. On September 16, 2025, Redford passed away at the age of 89.
This article reflects on his extraordinary journey in film, his activism and contributions through sundance, his final years, and what he leaves behind.
👉 For more on Hollywood icons, see Margerie Willett: Hollywood’s Unsung Heroine.
Who Was Robert Redford?
Charles Robert Redford Jr. was born August 18, 1936, in California. Over nearly seven decades, he became:
- A screen icon — starring in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, All the President’s Men, The Way We Were, and Out of Africa.
- An Academy Award–winning director — Ordinary People earned him Best Director and Best Picture.
- A champion for independent film — founding the Sundance Institute & Sundance Film Festival.
- An activist, particularly focused on environmental concerns and promoting artistic freedom.
👉 Fans of Hollywood family stories may also enjoy Leslie Knipfing’s Biography.
Movies & Career Highlights
Breakthrough Films
- Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) – His star power soared in this Western classic.
- The Sting (1973) – A charming con-man story with Paul Newman.
- All the President’s Men (1976) – A gripping political thriller.
- The Way We Were (1973) – Romantic drama that remains beloved.
Later Work & Final Screen Appearances
- Out of Africa (1985) – Epic romance with Meryl Streep.
- Ordinary People (1980) – Directorial pinnacle, won multiple Oscars.
- Dark Winds (Season 3 premiere, March 2025) – One of his final onscreen moments, with a cameo role.
His Death: What’s Confirmed
- Robert Redford died at age 89 on September 16, 2025.
- He passed away in his home in Sundance, Utah, surrounded by loved ones.
- Cause of death: Not officially disclosed. His publicist said the death was peaceful. Reports indicate he died at home, but no medical cause has been made public.
👉 Similar to the career growth of today’s stars like Margot Robbie, Redford balanced acting with producing and directing.
Family & Personal Life
- Marriages:
- Lola Van Wagenen (1958–1985)
- Sibylle Szaggars (2009–2025)
- Children:
- Amy Redford
- Shauna Redford
- James Redford (died in 2020)
- David James Redford
Redford remained private about his family life even as his professional achievements grew.
Legacy & Impact
- Sundance Institute & Festival – Redford gave a platform to thousands of independent filmmakers. His work there remains a cornerstone of indie cinema.
- Acting & Directing – From romantic leads and Western classics to Oscar-winning directorial work. His range was vast.
- Activism – Concern for environment, social justice, supporting the arts. He didn’t just act — he cared deeply about what his art said and what communities could do.
👉 For example, Vanna Bardeau’s Rising Star Journey shows how the new generation continues the tradition of influence.
Net Worth
At his passing, Redford’s net worth is estimated around $200 million. This came from his decades of acting and directing, producing, ownership of property (notably in Utah), and various investments.
👉 Compare with modern athletes like LaMelo Ball’s Net Worth.
Rumors vs Reality
For years, rumors circulated about Robert Redford’s health or passing. These were false or unconfirmed. As of September 2025, his death has been officially confirmed by his publicist, and there is no longer ambiguity. Reuters+1
Robert Redford’s Best Movies (Ranked)
| Rank | Movie Title | Year | Notable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid | 1969 | Defining Western buddy film |
| 2 | The Sting | 1973 | Wins Best Picture Oscar |
| 3 | All the President’s Men | 1976 | Political thriller impact |
| 4 | The Way We Were | 1973 | Romantic classic |
| 5 | Out of Africa | 1985 | Epic romance, scope & scale |
Outbound References
- Reuters – Robert Redford dies aged 89 Reuters
- People – Robert Redford obituary People.com
- AP News – Robert Redford, director, actor and indie patriarch, dies at 89 AP News
Frequently Asked Questions: Robert Redford
Yes, Robert Redford died on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. He passed away peacefully at his home in Sundance, Utah, surrounded by family. Official confirmation was provided by his publicist and reported by Reuters.
Robert Redford’s cause of death has not been officially disclosed. His representatives described the passing as peaceful at home. More details may be shared by family in time. Initial reporting came from Reuters.
Redford starred in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), The Sting (1973), The Way We Were (1973), and All the President’s Men (1976). For his full filmography, see his IMDb profile.
Yes. Robert Redford won the Academy Award for Best Director for Ordinary People (1980). He also received an Honorary Oscar in 2002 recognizing his contributions to film. Learn more at The Academy.
At the time of his death, Robert Redford’s net worth was estimated at around $200 million, from acting, directing, producing, real estate, and investments. Reported by Hindustan Times.
Robert Redford’s legacy includes his groundbreaking acting career, Oscar-winning directing, and founding the Sundance Film Festival, which became the world’s leading platform for independent cinema.
Conclusion
Robert Redford’s death marks the end of an era. He shaped cinema in ways very few others have — as a captivating actor, thoughtful director, fearless advocate for independent art, and a voice for social and environmental causes. His legacy will live on in every film, festival, and aspiring filmmaker inspired by Sundance.
Disclaimer
This article about Robert Redford’s death is based on news reports and official confirmations available as of September 2025. Details regarding Robert Redford’s cause of death, family, net worth, and legacy have been compiled from reputable outlets such as Reuters, AP News, People, IMDb, and The Academy. The information is provided for informational and educational purposes only.
We do not claim to provide medical or legal facts. Any updates or corrections will be reflected if further official statements are released by the family, representatives, or major media organizations.
