Robert Redford Biography: Age, Died, Family, Career, Net Worth, Awards
Robert Redford, born Charles Robert Redford Jr. on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, was an American actor, director, producer, and environmentalist.
Over a career spanning nearly seven decades, Redford became a Hollywood icon known for his roles in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and All the President’s Men. Beyond acting, he was a passionate advocate for independent cinema and environmental causes, leaving an indelible mark on both the film industry and society.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Robert Redford Jr. |
| Stage Name | Robert Redford |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Producer, Environmentalist |
| Birth Date | August 18, 1936 |
| Age at Passing | 89 (Died September 16, 2025) |
| Birth Place | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Known For | Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, All the President’s Men, Sundance Institute |
| Ethnicity | Irish-American |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Height & Weight | 5’10” (178 cm), 160 lbs (73 kg) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Education | University of Colorado, Bard College (Honorary Doctorates) |
| Religion | Raised Catholic |
| Marital Status | Married to Sibylle Szaggars (2009–2025) |
| Children | 4 (2 surviving: Shauna and Amy; 2 deceased: Scott and James) |
| Family Tree | Father: Charles Robert Redford Sr.; Mother: Martha Hart |
| Hobbies | Painting, Skiing, Environmental Advocacy |
| Current Work | Retired (Last film appearance in 2018) |
| Years Active | 1959–2018 |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $200 million at the time of his death |
Early Life & Education
Redford grew up in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles. His mother, Martha, passed away when he was 18, a loss that deeply affected him. He briefly attended the University of Colorado before moving to Europe, where he lived a bohemian lifestyle in Paris and Florence. Returning to the U.S., he studied at the Pratt Institute in New York and later at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Career Journey
Early Career
Redford began his career in the late 1950s with television roles and Broadway appearances. His film debut came in 1960, but it was his role in the 1969 film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid that catapulted him to stardom. The film’s success established him as a leading man in Hollywood.
1970s: Peak Stardom
The 1970s were a defining decade for Redford. He starred in The Sting (1973), which won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. In 1976, he portrayed Bob Woodward in All the President’s Men, earning an Oscar nomination and solidifying his status as a serious actor.
1980s–1990s: Directorial Success
Redford transitioned to directing with Ordinary People (1980), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Director. He continued to direct films like Quiz Show (1994), which earned him another Oscar nomination.
2000s–2010s: Later Work and Sundance Legacy
In the 2000s, Redford focused on producing and promoting independent films through the Sundance Institute and Sundance Film Festival, which he founded in 1981. The festival became a platform for emerging filmmakers and played a significant role in the indie film movement.
Personal Life
Redford married Lola Van Wagenen in 1958; they had four children before divorcing in 1985. He married artist Sibylle Szaggars in 2009. Redford was known for his love of nature, often spending time at his Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah. He was also an advocate for environmental conservation and progressive political causes.
Awards & Achievements
- Academy Awards: Best Director for Ordinary People (1981), Honorary Award (2002)
- Golden Globe Awards: Best Director for Ordinary People (1981)
- Presidential Medal of Freedom: Awarded by President Barack Obama (2016)
- Légion d’Honneur: Chevalier (2010)
- Kennedy Center Honors: Inducted (2005)
- National Medal of Arts: Awarded by President Bill Clinton (1996)
- Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement: Venice Film Festival (2017)
- César Honorary Award: (2019)
Physical Statistics
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Weight | 160 lbs (73 kg) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
Quotes
- “I’ve always been interested in the idea of the outsider, the person who has to deal with the world on their own terms.”
- “The only way to deal with this life meaningfully is to find one’s passion and follow it.”
- “I don’t want to be a movie star. I want to be a filmmaker.”
Controversies
Redford was known for his outspoken political views, particularly his criticism of environmental policies and corporate influence in politics. He was also an advocate for Native American rights and often used his platform to highlight issues affecting Indigenous communities.
Favorites
- Color: Blue
- Food: Lobster bisque
- Hobby: Painting
- Music: Jazz
Salary & Net Worth
At the time of his death, Redford’s net worth was estimated at $200 million. His wealth was accumulated through his acting career, directing projects, producing films, and his involvement with the Sundance Institute and Film Festival. He also earned income from his real estate holdings, including his Sundance Mountain Resort.
Interesting Facts
- Redford was an accomplished painter and often incorporated his artwork into his film projects.
- He founded the Sundance Institute in 1981 to support independent filmmakers.
- Redford was an avid skier and enjoyed spending time in the mountains.
Social Media Links
As of his passing, Robert Redford was not active on social media platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was Robert Redford’s most famous role?
A: Redford is best known for his roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973).
Q: Did Robert Redford win an Oscar?
A: Yes, Redford won the Academy Award for Best Director for Ordinary People (1981).
Q: Was Robert Redford married?
A: Yes, Redford was married twice: to Lola Van Wagenen and later to Sibylle Szaggars.
Q: What was Robert Redford’s cause of death?
A: Robert Redford passed away at the age of 89 on September 16, 2025, at his home in Sundance, Utah.
Conclusion
Robert Redford’s legacy extends beyond his cinematic achievements. He was a pioneer in independent filmmaking, a passionate environmentalist, and a dedicated family man. His contributions to film and society have left an indelible mark, inspiring generations to come. His passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood, but his influence will continue to resonate through his work and the institutions he founded.
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