Hollywood figures and fans of the movies mourned the death of Robert Redford, expressing affection and admiration for the actor, Oscar-winning director and Sundance Film Festival founder.
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Actor Colman Domingo said Redford had an “everlasting impact” on movies and director Ron Howard called his Sundance Film Festival a “game changer.” “Reservation Dogs” director Sterlin Harjo said Redford empowered filmmakers. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump said they admired his work.
Redford died Tuesday “at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah — the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved,” publicist Cindi Berger said.
The marquee of the Egyptian Theater in Park City, Utah, was changed Tuesday to read: “Applause for Bob Redford! Thank you Sundance Kid!”
Here’s a roundup of some notable reaction to Redford’s death and his legacy.
Jane Fonda
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 27: Robert Redford and Jane Fonda attend the Netflix Hosts The New York Premiere Of ‘Our Souls At Night’ at at The Oak Room on September 27, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)
“It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.” — in a statement.
Leonardo DiCaprio
“It was a huge loss to our community. Not only was he an incredible actor — we all know his work — but his ability, as a director too, films like “Quiz Show.” He was one of the first guys to do political thrillers – “Three Days of the Condor,” “All the President’s Men” — … he paved the way for films like this but more so than anything, he was a staunch environmental leader and was a member of the NRDC, like me, and fought for Indigenous rights — the list goes on and on. We lost a legend today.” — in an interview with The Associated Press.
Barbra Streisand
402720 244: Oscar Winner Robert Redford Poses For A Photograph With Actress Barbra Streisand After He Received An Honorary Award From The Board Of Governors Of The Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences, Backstage At The 74Th Annual Academy Awards March 24, 2002 At The Kodak Theater In Hollywood, Ca. (Photo By Getty Images)
“Every day on the set of ‘The Way We Were’ was exciting, intense and pure joy. We were such opposites: he was from the world of horses; I was allergic to them! Yet, we kept trying to find out more about each other, just like the characters in the movie. Bob was charismatic, intelligent, intense, always interesting — and one of the finest actors ever. The last time I saw him, when he came to lunch, we discussed art and decided to send each other our first drawings. He was one of a kind and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him.” — on Instagram.
Ethan Hawke
PARK CITY, UTAH – JANUARY 23: Robert Redford and Ethan Hawke attend Sundance Institute’s ‘An Artist at the Table Presented by IMDbPro’ at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival on January 23, 2020 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for IMDb)
“Robert Redford, our ultimate champion of independent film, relentless advocate for authentic storytelling and fiercely passionate environmentalist. Robert’s legacy remains ingrained in our culture, transformed by his artistry, activism and the founding of Sundance Institute and Film Festival.” — on Instagram.
Marlee Matlin
“Our film, ‘CODA,’ came to the attention of everyone because of Sundance. And Sundance happened because of Robert Redford. A genius has passed. RIP Robert.” — on X.
Ron Howard
“#RIP & thank you Robert Redford, a tremendously influential cultural figure for the creative choices made as an actor/producer/director & for launching the Sundance Film Festival which supercharged America’s Independent Film movement. Artistic Gamechanger.” — on X.
Kerry Washington
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 05: Actors Robert Redford and Kerry Washington attend the 2009 National Arts Awards at Cipriani 42nd Street on October 5, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)
“He was not just a visionary who transformed American cinema, he was a generous and kind soul who taught those of us in his orbit, endless lessons about art, culture, nature, storytelling, fame and family.” — on Instagram
Sterlin Harjo
“My career and path as a young man was defined by his commitment to supporting independent cinema and especially his commitment to empower Native film and storytellers.” — on Instagram.
Octavia Spencer
“From Butch Cassidy to Sundance, he blended art and activism in ways few have. His quiet strength will live in every frame he directed, every festival he championed and every artist he encouraged.” — on Instagram.
Donald Trump
“Robert Redford was great. He had a series of years where there was nobody better.” — to reporters.
Antonio Banderas
“Robert Redford leaves us, an icon of cinema in every sense. Actor, director, producer, and founder of the Sundance Festival. His talent will continue to move us forever, shining through the frames and in our memory. RIP.” — on X.
Stephen King
“Robert Redford has passed away. He was part of a new and exciting Hollywood in the 70s and 80s. Hard to believe he was 89.” — on X.
Mark Ruffalo
“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 peoples lives better and included anyone who had an interest. Please remember him well.” — on Instagram.
Hillary Clinton
“I always admired Robert Redford, not only for his legendary career as an actor and director but for what came next. He championed progressive values like protecting the environment and access to the arts while creating opportunities for new generations of activists and filmmakers. A true American icon.” — on Instagram.
Morgan Freeman
“There are certain people you know that you’re going to click with. After working with Robert Redford on Brubaker in 1980, we instantly became friends. Working with him again in ‘An Unfinished Life’ was a dream come true. Rest peacefully, my friend.” — on Instagram.
James Gunn
“I grew up with his movies: his quiet, unforced performances and ever-present grace. He was THE movie star, and will be greatly missed.” — on Instagram.
Colman Domingo
“With love and admiration. Thank you Mr. Redford for your everlasting impact. Will be felt for generations. R.I.P.” — on X.
Ry Russo-Young
“So much of Redford’s work-on screen and off- has been about making challenging, truthful and meaningful movies. Sundance Film Festival, which he founded, was the creative home for so many of us in independent film. Grateful for all he’s given.” — on Instagram.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox
“Decades ago, Robert Redford came to Utah and fell in love with this place. He cherished our landscapes and built a legacy that made Utah a home for storytelling and creativity. Through Sundance and his devotion to conservation, he shared Utah with the world.” — in a statement.
Cary Elwes
“There weren’t that many towering legends that loomed large in our home growing up as a kid but Robert Redford was certainly one of them.” — on Instagram.
Sundance Institute
PARK CITY, UT – JANUARY 18: Festival founder Robert Redford addresses the press during the 2007 Sundance Film Festival opening press conference at the Eygptian Theatre on Main Street January 18, 2007 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Getty Images)
“Bob’s vision of a space and a platform for independent voices launched a movement that, over four decades later, has inspired generations of artists and redefined cinema in the U.S. and around the world.” — in a statement.
Amy Sedaris
“One of a kind. Beautiful man inside and out. Oh this is just so very sad. He really was in his own category so was Paul Newman.” — on Instagram.
Ben Stiller
“No actor more iconic.” — on X.
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