Robert Redford, the acclaimed actor and filmmaker, died on Tuesday at his home at Sundance in Utah at the age of 89. His death has prompted tributes from actors and colleagues across generations. Jane Fonda, Meryl Streep, Leonardo DiCaprio, Morgan Freeman, and Barbra Streisand are among those who have publicly reflected on Redford’s enduring legacy in cinema and activism. Redford’s influence spanned film, environmental advocacy, and the nurturing of new talent.
Jane Fonda, who shared the screen with Redford in several notable films, expressed the emotional impact of his death. “I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way,” she said in a statement to CNN, adding, “He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.” Their collaborations included ‘The Chase’ (1966), ‘Barefoot in the Park’ (1967), and ‘The Electric Horseman’ (1979).
She also wrote a heartfelt note on her Instagram page with a picture from their last film, ‘Our Souls at Night’.
Redford’s influence extended to actors of subsequent generations. Leonardo DiCaprio, who worked with Redford on environmental causes, wrote, “His unwavering commitment to protecting our planet and inspiring change matched his immense talent. His impact will endure for generations to come (sic).”
Cindi Berger, Chairman and CEO of Rogers and Cowan PMK, confirmed Redford’s death, stating, “Redford died Tuesday at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah – the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved. He will be missed greatly.”
Woody Harrelson recalled Redford as “a real gentleman with a great laugh and mischievous humour. I could always see the kid in him, no matter his age. He stands the brightest among a firmament of stars.” Harrelson credited Redford and Paul Newman as inspirations for his own career.
Mark Ruffalo, who starred with Redford in “The Last Castle,” posted a tribute 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 organisations that made peoples (sic) lives better and included anyone who had an interest.”
Meryl Streep, Redford’s co-star from “Out of Africa,” in a statement to CNN, “One of the lions has passed. Rest in peace my lovely friend.” Morgan Freeman, who collaborated with Redford on “Brubaker” and “An Unfinished Life,” described working with Redford as “a dream come true.”
Scarlett Johansson, who appeared in “The Horse Whisperer,” in a statement to CNN, said, “Bob created an environment on set that was calm and precious; a place where actors could make discoveries. He was patient and warm and kind. Bob taught me what acting could be, and it was from his generosity and patience that I was inspired to pursue the possibilities of the craft.” She added that his generosity inspired his creation of Sundance, a place for filmmakers to learn and inspire one another.
Barbra Streisand, Redford’s co-star from “The Way We Were,” wrote, “Every day on the set of The Way We Were was exciting, intense and pure joy.” Streisand called Redford “charismatic, intelligent, intense, always interesting – and one of the finest actors ever,” and reflected, “He was one of a kind and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him.”
Robert Redford’s death has left family, fans, friends and colleagues in the industry in deep mourning.
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