In brief
Robert Redford, a defining figure in American cinema and director of the Sundance Film Festival, died at 89. His impact on film is unmatched, and he leaves behind a legacy of classic roles and significant contributions to independent filmmaking. Redford's passion for storytelling and the arts will be remembered for generations.
US acting legend Redford, known for roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, has died at the age of 89.
In a statement, his publicist Cindi Berger reported: Robert Redford passed away on September 16 at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah - the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved. He will be missed greatly. The family requests privacy.
The Oscar-winning star of Out of Africa was also known for founding the Sundance Film Festival in Utah.
Redford won an Academy Award for best director in 1980 for Ordinary People and announced his retirement from acting in 2018, expressing his fatigue with the profession.
His impressive filmography included hits like The Candidate, All the President's Men, and Indecent Proposal. But it was Butch Cassidy that catapulted him to fame. Redford was known for his reluctance to embrace the leading man heartthrob stereotype.
In the words of Redford, It’s not easy being Robert Redford, as he struggled with public perception focusing more on his looks than his talent.
Redford's contribution to cinema extended beyond acting, with the Sundance Film Festival aiding countless independent filmmakers. He leaves behind his wife Sibylle Szaggars, along with two daughters, following the earlier loss of his son James.
His death embodies a significant moment for the film industry, as the world bids farewell to a true pioneer of both performance and direction.
