Robert Redford, the iconic strawberry-haired actor and Oscar-winning director, passed away on Tuesday, September 16, at the age of 89. His death occurred at his beloved Sundance home in Utah, surrounded by family, according to his representative, Cindi Berger.
Over the decades, Redford became synonymous not only with Hollywood stardom but also with the Sundance Film Festival, which he founded and nurtured into one of the most respected film events in the world.
“He will be missed greatly,” Berger shared, noting that the family requested privacy during this time.
Family Life and Relationships
Redford is survived by his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, 68, whom he married in 2009. Szaggars, a native of Germany, is a multimedia environmental artist whose work spans oil paintings and performance art, all emphasizing the protection and celebration of the natural world. Together, they shared a commitment to environmental causes, reflecting Redford’s lifelong advocacy for conservation and climate awareness.
Before Szaggars, Redford was married to activist Lola Van Wagenen, 86. The couple had four children: Scott, Shauna, James, and Amy Redford. Tragically, Scott died shortly after birth due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), while James passed away in 2020 from primary sclerosing cholangitis, a liver disease.
Instagram | nypost | Sibylle Szaggars, Redford's German wife, is an environmental multimedia artist.
Redford spoke about the impact of these losses in a 2017 interview with Esquire, describing Scott’s death as a “traumatic” event that quietly influenced his life. He reflected, “You have to move on. But something like that doesn’t get completely dismissed. It probably shows up in various small ways you’re not even aware of.”
His surviving children, Shauna, 64, and Amy, 54, have carried forward his creative and environmental legacy. Amy followed her father into acting, while Shauna became an artist, continuing the family’s influence in both art and advocacy.
Redford’s Environmental Commitment
Environmental activism was central to Redford’s life. Alongside his wife and children, he co-founded the Redford Institute in 2005 with his late son James. The institute focused on raising awareness about climate change and conservation. Redford used his prominence to speak publicly about protecting natural habitats and championing sustainable practices, reinforcing his role as a voice for the planet both on and off the screen.
Szaggars’ environmental artistry complemented Redford’s activism, highlighting the couple’s shared dedication to ecological issues. Their collaborative work blurred the lines between art, activism, and family life, leaving a meaningful legacy beyond Hollywood.
Remembering a Hollywood Icon
Instagram | raindancefilmfestival | Redford left a lasting mark through iconic roles and unwavering integrity.
Redford’s career spanned decades, leaving a mark with unforgettable performances in films such as “The Sting” and “The Natural.” He was celebrated not only for his talent but also for his integrity, charm, and influence on generations of actors, filmmakers, and audiences.
Collaborations with stars like Jane Fonda brought both his craft and social consciousness to wider attention, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in cinema and humanitarian causes alike.
Even in later years, Redford remained actively involved in projects that mirrored his values, whether through documentaries, environmental initiatives, or supporting new talent through Sundance.
A Lasting Legacy
Robert Redford’s life was defined by more than his screen presence. He nurtured family bonds, faced personal tragedies with resilience, and dedicated himself to environmental preservation. His influence persists through his surviving children, the Sundance Film Festival, and the Redford Institute, all of which continue to champion creativity, activism, and social responsibility.
Redford’s passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions—both cinematic and ecological—ensure that his spirit endures.