Entertainment

Hollywood Legend Robert Redford Dies, Aged 89

By Campbell Goldston

Robert Redford, a renowned American actor and director, died on Sept. 16th at the age of 89. Known for starring in films like “The Twilight Zone”, “Barefoot in the Park” in 1967, and “The Great Gatsby” in 1974, as well as directing “Ordinary People” in 1980, Redford undoubtedly made a large mark on Hollywood.

Born Aug. 18th, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, he had a passion for the arts from a young age, describing his youth interests as “arts and sports”. After attending the University of Colorado for a year and a half, he enrolled at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, to study painting and took classes at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

He began acting soon after moving to New York, landing his debut in the Broadway production “Tall Story” in 1959. After starring in the Broadway show “Barefoot in the Park” in 1963, he began booking other roles across television and movies. He made guest appearances in “The Americans”, “The Twilight Zone”, and “Tate”. 

After excelling at his role as The Sundance Kid in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” in 1969, Redford became a household name. Redford’s desire to work behind the screen paid off in 1976 with “All the President’s Men”, where he was both the executive producer and star. The film earned 8 Academy Award nominations. 

He landed his directorial debut in 1980 with “The Ordinary People”, where he was praised for his work. The film was one of the most critically acclaimed of the decade. Redford continued to act and direct, finding success with “The Natural” in 1984, “A River Runs Through It” in 1992, and “Spy Game” in 2001. 

After announcing his retirement in 2018, he made a brief cameo in “Dark Winds” in early 2025. Redford leaves behind his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, his two children, Shauna and Amy, and seven grandchildren. His legacy in Hollywood will be remembered for the dedication he put into all his work.