Tragic Details About Robert Redford

Robert Redford is a Hollywood legend, known for his roles in classic films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), The Sting (1973), and All the President’s Men (1976). While he has enjoyed a remarkable career as an actor, director, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, Redford’s life has also been marked by deep personal tragedies. From heartbreaking family losses to serious health struggles, his journey has been far from easy.

The Loss of His Infant Son

One of the most devastating events in Robert Redford’s life was the death of his firstborn son, Scott Redford. In 1959, Redford and his then-wife, Lola Van Wagenen, welcomed Scott into the world. However, just a few months later, tragedy struck when the infant passed away due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The loss was incredibly painful for the young couple, and Redford later spoke about how it shaped him as a person. He described the experience as a deep wound that he carried with him throughout his life.

The Death of His Son, James Redford

Redford faced another heartbreaking loss in 2020 when his son, James Redford, died from bile duct cancer at the age of 58. James had battled liver disease for much of his life, even undergoing two liver transplants. He later became a filmmaker and activist, raising awareness about organ donation and environmental issues. Losing James was a crushing blow for Redford, who was 84 years old at the time. A representative for the actor said that he was “mourning with his family” and that the loss was “immeasurable.”

His Own Health Battles

Over the years, Robert Redford has faced several health challenges. In his later years, he has been reported to struggle with various ailments, including issues with his vision and hearing. Additionally, he had a bout with polio as a child, which he later said gave him an early understanding of hardship. Though he has maintained a strong and resilient public image, aging and health problems have taken their toll.

The End of His Acting Career

In 2018, Redford announced that he would be retiring from acting after his final film, The Old Man & the Gun. While he has since made small appearances in projects like Avengers: Endgame, stepping away from the career that defined his life was a difficult decision. He admitted that he had mixed feelings about leaving acting behind, as it had been his passion for decades.

The Deaths of Close Friends and Colleagues

As one of Hollywood’s longest-standing actors, Redford has seen many of his close friends and co-stars pass away. Paul Newman, his beloved Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid co-star, died in 2008 after battling lung cancer. Redford later spoke about how much he admired Newman and how difficult it was to say goodbye. The losses of other industry friends, including Sydney Pollack and Charles Robert Redford Sr. (his father), have added to his personal grief.

A Life of Triumph and Tragedy

Despite these tragic events, Robert Redford’s life has also been filled with incredible achievements. He has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, both as an actor and a director. His contributions to independent filmmaking through the Sundance Film Festival have helped launch the careers of countless filmmakers. However, behind the success, he has endured great personal losses that have shaped the man he is today.

At 87 years old, Redford remains a symbol of resilience, proving that even in the face of immense tragedy, one can continue to leave a lasting legacy.

FAQs About Robert Redford

1. Who is Robert Redford?

Robert Redford is an American actor, director, producer, and activist. He is best known for his roles in classic films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), The Sting (1973), and All the President’s Men (1976). He is also the founder of the Sundance Film Festival, which promotes independent filmmaking.

2. How old is Robert Redford?

Robert Redford was born on August 18, 1936. As of 2025, he is 88 years old.

3. Is Robert Redford still alive?

Yes, as of the latest updates, Robert Redford is still alive. However, he has largely retired from public life and acting.

4. What is Robert Redford’s full name?

His full name is Charles Robert Redford Jr.

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5. What was Robert Redford’s last movie?

Robert Redford’s last major acting role was in The Old Man & the Gun (2018). He announced his retirement from acting after that film. However, he made a brief appearance as his character Alexander Pierce in Avengers: Endgame (2019).

6. What awards has Robert Redford won?

Redford has won numerous awards, including:

• An Academy Award (Oscar) for Best Director for Ordinary People (1980)

• An Honorary Academy Award (2002) for his contributions to film

• A Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016) for his work in the arts and environmental activism

7. How many children does Robert Redford have?

Robert Redford had four children: Scott Redford, Shauna Redford, James Redford, and Amy Redford. Sadly, Scott passed away as an infant in 1959, and James died of cancer in 2020.

8. Who was Robert Redford married to?

He was married to Lola Van Wagenen from 1958 to 1985. In 2009, he married Sibylle Szaggars, a German artist.

9. What is Robert Redford’s connection to the Sundance Film Festival?

Robert Redford founded the Sundance Film Festival in 1978 to support independent filmmakers. The festival, held annually in Utah, has become one of the most prestigious independent film festivals in the world.

10. What are Robert Redford’s most famous movies?

Some of his most iconic films include:

• Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)

• The Sting (1973)

• All the President’s Men (1976)

• Ordinary People (1980) (as director)

• Out of Africa (1985)

• A River Runs Through It (1992) (as director)

• The Horse Whisperer (1998)

11. Why did Robert Redford retire from acting?

Redford announced his retirement from acting in 2018, stating that he wanted to focus on other interests such as directing, environmental activism, and his family.

12. Is Robert Redford involved in activism?

Yes, Redford is a passionate environmentalist and political activist. He has supported conservation efforts, climate change awareness, and Native American rights.

13. What is Robert Redford doing now?

Redford has largely stepped away from public life. He spends time with his family, supports environmental causes, and continues to be involved in the Sundance Institute, which promotes independent filmmaking.

14. Where does Robert Redford live?

Robert Redford has homes in Utah and California, but he primarily resides in Utah, where he owns a ranch and the Sundance Resort.

15. How tall is Robert Redford?

Robert Redford is approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) tall.