The world of cinema and activism was plunged into profound sadness this week with the passing of Robert Redford, one of Hollywood’s most beloved, influential, and enduring figures. The multi-talented actor, Oscar-winning director, and pioneering force behind the independent film movement died at the age of 89 at his home in Sundance, Utah, the place he cherished most — peacefully and surrounded by loved ones.
At the London premiere of his latest film One Battle After Another, acclaimed actor Leonardo DiCaprio – himself a major film star and environmental advocate – was asked to reflect on Redford’s legacy. DiCaprio spoke with heartfelt admiration, emphasizing both Redford’s artistic achievements and his moral courage.
“We have lost an absolute legend in our industry,” DiCaprio said, acknowledging that Redford did far more than perform great roles – he helped define the very art of cinematic storytelling. DiCaprio praised Redford not only for his iconic work on screen but also for his accomplishments behind the camera as a director, with films like Quiz Show that remain powerful and timeless.
He noted that Redford was an early pioneer of political thrillers – including classics such as All the President’s Men and Three Days of the Condor – films that set the groundwork for generations of filmmakers to tackle meaningful, complex storytelling.
But, DiCaprio continued, it was Redford’s passion for the world beyond cinema that truly set him apart. As a lifelong environmentalist, Redford was deeply committed to protecting the planet. Like DiCaprio, he served with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), advocating for Indigenous rights, conservation, and urgent climate action. DiCaprio called this part of Redford’s life a hero’s journey, emphasizing how his devotion to environmental causes matched his immense artistic talent.
DiCaprio’s tribute, shared widely on social media alongside a classic photograph of Redford smiling with quiet confidence, reminded the world of the full spectrum of Redford’s life: actor, director, activist, and beloved cultural figure whose influence will last for decades.
Remembering a Life That Shaped Cinema and Culture
Redford’s career stretched over more than six decades – from his early breakthrough roles in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, to deep, complex performances in movies like Out of Africa and Jeremiah Johnson. His directorial work was equally respected, earning him an Academy Award for Best Director for Ordinary People.
But perhaps his most enduring legacy was his creation of the Sundance Institute and Sundance Film Festival.
Founded in the early 1980s, Sundance became the creative heartbeat of independent cinema in America, offering a vital platform for emerging storytellers whose voices might not have found space within the traditional Hollywood system. That festival is credited with launching countless careers and transforming how the world sees independent film – a contribution few artists can match.
A Chorus of Tributes From Hollywood and Beyond
In the wake of Redford’s death, tributes poured in from artists, collaborators, and admirers across the globe:
ey Jane Fonda, who co-starred with him in films spanning decades, shared that the news struck her deeply – she couldn’t stop crying – and described him as not just a great artist, but a beautiful person who stood for the America “we have to keep fighting for.”
My Barbra Streisand, Redford’s co-star in The Way We Were, called him “one of the finest actors ever,” recalling their joyful and creative time together on set and the deep mutual respect they shared.
Martin Scorsese honored him as a “unique artist” whose work in front of and behind the camera brought something irreplaceable and lasting to American cinema.
@ Other voices, from Morgan Freeman to Octavia Spencer, from Ron Howard to Mia Farrow, highlighted Redford’s mix of empathy, artistic excellence, and mentorship that helped shape their own careers and impacted film culture worldwide.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Robert Redford’s passing marks the end of an era – but his influence will live on in the films he made, the filmmakers he inspired, the festivals he built, and the causes he championed. His life was a testament to the power of art connected to conscience, and his impact reverberates far beyond cinema.
As Leonardo DiCaprio said so poignantly: “We lost a legend today,” but what Robert Redford gave to the world will continue to inspire generations to come.
