Robert Redford has passed away at age 89.
The filmmaker and actor was the celebrated founder of the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival that takes place every January in Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s a place for all voices to be heard, welcoming independent filmmakers that often get their footing there.
From his legendary acting in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” to his Oscar-nominated role in “The Sting,” he won prestigious recognition for his filmmaking talent with an Academy Award for directing “Ordinary People” in 1981.
Tributes have been pouring in from Redford’s many friends in the industry, including fellow environmentalist and actress Jane Fonda, who starred with the iconic actor in many films, including 2017’s “Our Souls At Night.”
“I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way,” Fonda said in a statement shared with the media. “He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.”
Animal rights organization PETA praised Redford for his activism to protect horses and other animals throughout his life and career.
The Environmental Media Association posted a tribute to Instagram: “RIP to a legendary actor and environmental activist Robert Redford. Robert understood the power of storytelling to change hearts and minds, and we are forever grateful for his work.” Adding, that Redford “was our first keynote speaker at the 1991 EMA Awards. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
The Oscar winner’s lasting legacy will live on through his life’s work.
