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By Megan Cartwright
Associate News Editor
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Robert Redford, Oscar-winning actor, director and Sundance founder, died on Tuesday at his home in Utah.
Cindi Berger, chief executive of the publicity firm Rogers & Cowan PMK, confirmed his death to Newsweek. He was 89.
The Context
Redford was both a bankable star in mainstream Hollywood and a major institutional force behind the modern independent-film ecosystem. He won the Academy Award for directing Ordinary People (1980) and founded the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, organizations widely credited with elevating independent filmmakers. Those dual roles—star and institution builder—helped alter how films are financed, discovered and distributed in the U.S. and internationally.
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What To Know
"Robert Redford passed away on September 16, 2025, at his home at Sundance in the mountains of Utah―the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved," Berger said in a statement to Newsweek. "He will be missed greatly. The family requests privacy."
Redford's acting career highlights include roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, All the President's Men and The Sting.
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What People Are Saying
Following news of his death, celebrities took to social media to share tributes to the late star.
Sundance Institute spokeswoman Tiffany Duersch said in a statement, per NBC News: "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. Beyond his enormous contributions to culture at large, we will miss his generosity, clarity of purpose, curiosity, rebellious spirit, and his love for the creative process."
Rosie O'Donnell wrote via Instagram: "Oh hubbell - we will never be the same - goodnight bob - what a legacy #sundancefilmfestival #redford."
Horror author Stephen King shared on X: "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."
Meryl Streep, Redford's Lions For Lambs co-star, said in a statement via The Independent: "One of the lions has passed. Rest in peace my lovely friend."
Jane Fonda said via USA Today on Tuesday: "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."
Actress Marlee Matlin posted to X: "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."
Filmmaker James Gunn said on Instagram: "I grew up with his movies: his quiet, unforced performances and ever-present grace. He was THE movie star, and will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace, Robert. If you want to watch a Redford movie that isn't The Sting or Butch Cassidy, here are ten I love: Three Days of the Condor,All the President's Men,The Natural,All Is Lost,Ordinary People,Brubaker,Jeremiah Johnson,Barefoot in the Park,Captain America Winter Soldier,The Candidate."
Actor Colman Domingo said on X: "With love and admiration. Thank you Mr. Redford for your everlasting impact. Will be felt for generations. R.I.P."
Rita Wilson wrote on Instagram: "Robert Redford. Your art stands the test of time. Your love of young filmmakers and artists gave us Sundance Film Festival. You showed us the importance of nature. As a director we were able to see your art from behind the camera. You will be remembered always. And you will be missed. May your memory be eternal."
Fimmaker Ron Howard shared on X: "#RIP & thank you RobertRedford, 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."
Spanish actor Antonio Banderas posted to Instagram: "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."
Piers Morgan said on X: "RIP Robert Redford, 89. One of the all-time great movie stars. A true Hollywood legend who starred in so many of my favourite films: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, The Way We Were, All The President's Men. What a career, what an actor, what a sad loss."
What Happens Next
At the time of publication, no cause of death has been released.
Redford is survived by his wife, Sibylle Szaggars—whom he wed in 2009—and his two daughters, Shauna and Amy.
Update 09/16/25 2:09 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
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