Robert Redford at a Press Conference Supporting Prop 87. Photo by s_bukley/DEPOSITPHOTOS

LIFEDISTINCTION 12.25

Robert Redford

Virtually everybody across the world stopped what they were doing on September 16, 2025, to acknowledge the passing of a truly great man. I was in Europe when Robert Redford’s death was announced, and news stations stopped in their tracks to pay tribute to a man who changed the world substantially. The world’s tributes could not have been more fitting for a Hollywood icon whose progressive contributions to society and the world were profoundly important.

Redford was not just an iconic actor. He used his talents to great effect and went on to become an Oscar-winning director for his 1980 film, Ordinary People. It was groundbreaking in its raw, honest, and nuanced portrayal of a family’s struggle with grief, mental health, and emotional repression after a tragic accident. Redford directed the sensitive uncovering of trauma within a seemingly perfect family, earning critical acclaim, four Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director, and helping to redefine the family drama genre.

Redford’s prolific career showcasing his talents as an actor and director included The Sting, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Way We Were, All the President’s Men, The Natural, Three Days of the Condor, Out of Africa, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Our Souls at Night and All Is Lost.

Sundance

Powerfully important was Redford’s founding of the Sundance Institute, which celebrated his lasting vision for supporting independent filmmakers and redefining cinema. The Sundance Film Festival grew out of this, and it led the way for independent filmmaking worldwide. It launched the careers of many influential directors including Steven Soderbergh, Quentin Tarantino, and Ryan Coogler, who otherwise might not have found a launching platform. The objective of Sundance was to encourage non-commercial filmmaking on topics that were important to humanity – topics that countered Hollywood’s obsession with box office numbers. It encouraged talented filmmakers to take risks and tell important, unique stories. Redford channeled his fame by spearheading vital change in the arts and in the world.

Environmental and Political Activism

Redford was a dedicated environmentalist, long before it was a mainstream cause. He used his influence to advocate for environmental protection. He served as a trustee for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) for five decades. He campaigned against major projects that threatened wilderness areas in Utah and worked to protect public lands. When it came to Redford’s political activism, he worked intensely to hold people accountable for their actions. He was a truth seeker second to none.

Robert Redford, Jane Fonda at the “Our souls at night” photocall, 74th venice film festival in Italy.
PHOTO BY magicinfoto/DEPOSITPHOTOS

Altruism

Redford viewed storytelling as a powerful tool for social change. In his films and personal advocacy, he championed human rights, climate action and Indigenous rights. He displayed exemplary altruistic convictions. He blended art with action in the most gentlemanly manner. Everybody who knew him remarked on his immense generosity and humility. He eschewed the trappings of fame and chose to lead a life that was grounded in organic substance.

The tributes that poured in after his passing were strongly heartfelt. Sony CEO Tom Rothman said in a statement:

“In addition to being a titanic acting and directing talent, as an early board member of the Sundance Institute, I saw first-hand the Sundance Kid’s passionate commitment to indie film and young artists. Robert Redford truly gave back. The entire scope of American film would have been much poorer without him. An amazing legacy of an amazing man.”

Leonardo DiCaprio wrote on his Instagram: “Actor, activist, passionate environmentalist, and champion of the arts. His unwavering commitment to protecting our planet and inspiring change matched his immense talent. His impact will endure for generations to come.”

American actor, producer, director and screenwriter, Mark Ruffalo, wrote on Instagram: “This is what a real American Hero looks like. A man who brought people together, lived and practiced empathy, and created good and useful organizations that made people’s lives better and included anyone who had an interest. Please remember him well.”

Redford’s leading ladies Barbra Streisand and Jane Fonda shared heartfelt sentiments about their collaborative experiences while fellow actors, directors, and politicians spoke of his immense talent and cultural impact.

Meryl Streep, Redford’s co-star in the iconic film, ‘Out of Africa’ said – movingly: “One of the Lions has passed.”

There’s no question that Robert Redford was a lion amongst men in the most noble sense.