Born in Santa Monica, California, on August 18, 1936, Robert Redford stands as an eminent figure in American cinema, showcasing his exceptional talent through iconic roles in cinematic classics like “The Sting,”
Embark on an adventurous journey throughExplore the untamed landscapes of the American frontier in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” Join the dynamic duo, played by Paul Newman and Robert Redford, as they defy the law with charm and wit, leaving an indelible mark on the rugged landscapes of the American frontier.
Step into the intricate world of politics with “The Candidate,” featuring Robert Redford in a compelling role. This film delves into the captivating narrative of a charismatic candidate navigating the complexities of a political campaign. As the story unfolds, it explores the nuances of ambition, ethics, and the high-stakes game of running for public office.” and “The Way We Were.” Beyond his illustrious acting career, Redford played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Sundance Film Festival, now revered as one of the film industry’s premier events, offering invaluable support to independent filmmakers.
In addition to his acting prowess, Redford has seamlessly transitioned into the realms of production and direction, earning an Academy Award for Best Director for the poignant film “Ordinary People.” His directorial efforts were further acknowledged with nominations in both the directing and best picture categories for “Quiz Show.” Robert Redford’s multifaceted contributions have not only left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape but have also significantly impacted the trajectory of independent filmmaking.
Robert Redford Early Life
Charles Robert Redford Jr., born on August 18, 1936, in the culturally diverse enclave of Santa Monica, California, has left an indelible mark on American cinema as an accomplished actor and director. His versatility extends beyond the spotlight, as he has made significant contributions to the film industry both in front of and behind the camera. Redford’s commitment to fostering talent in the field is evident through his instrumental role in the Sundance Institute and the associated film festival.
Within the backdrop of a multicultural upbringing, Redford’s father, initially a milkman turned oil company accountant, and his vibrant mother, with a fervor for literature and cinema, shaped the early contours of his life. Despite his father’s professional shifts and his mother’s literary passions, Redford found his own path, excelling in sports inspired by his uncle’s influence. Track, tennis, and football showcased his athleticism, while a flourishing romantic life added to the tapestry of his youth. Nevertheless, in his own admission, Redford faced setbacks in various pursuits.
Looking back on his early challenges, Redford admitted, “In reality, I failed at every attempt. I was a box boy at a supermarket and got dismissed. Later, my dad secured a job for me at Standard Oil, but I was let go again.” His youthful missteps, which included minor legal issues like hubcap theft and covert pool usage, contributed additional complexities to his early years.
In 1954, Redford graduated from Van Nuys High School, but tragedy struck with the loss of his mother to septicemia in 1955, plunging him into a profound emotional abyss. Despite these challenges, Robert Redford’s journey continued, eventually shaping him into a cinematic luminary whose impact transcends the screen.
Robert Redford Career
Embarking on his acting journey in the vibrant landscape of New York City, Robert Redford honed his craft through a diverse array of theater and television roles. The nascent stages of his career saw him tread the boards of Broadway, with his debut in the 1959 production of “Tall Story” marking the commencement of his theatrical ventures. Subsequent to this inaugural performance, Redford undertook modest roles in notable productions such as “The Highest Tree” (1959) and “Sunday in New York” (1961), steadily establishing his presence in the theatrical realm.
A pivotal moment in his Broadway trajectory manifested when Redford assumed a role in the original cast of Neil Simon’s “Barefoot in the Park” (1963), where he portrayed the husband of Elizabeth Ashley. This particular venture proved to be a highlight in Redford’s early career, showcasing both his acting prowess and his ability to contribute meaningfully to the success of a theatrical production. These formative years on Broadway laid the groundwork for a career that would soon transcend the stage, catapulting Redford into the realm of cinematic stardom.
Commencing in 1960, Robert Redford embarked on a dual trajectory, gracing both the small and silver screens with his versatile talents. His television journey included guest appearances on renowned shows such as “Maverick” (1960), “Perry Mason” (1960), “Naked City” (1961), “Whispering Smith” (1961), “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” (1961), “The Twilight Zone” (1962), and “The Untouchables” (1963), among others. Notably, his compelling portrayal in “The Voice of Charlie Pont” (1962) earned Redford an Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Following his appearance on the ABC medical drama “Breaking Point” in 1963, Redford took a hiatus from television until 2019 when his likeness and archival audio were featured in the HBO drama “Watchmen,” portraying a fictionalized version of himself in an alternate universe.
Concurrently, 1960 marked Redford’s cinematic debut in the film “Tall Story,” where he undertook a minor role. As he gained prominence on Broadway and television, Redford transitioned to more substantial roles in films, securing his second movie role in “War Hunt” (1962). Subsequent films, including “Situation Hopeless…But Not Serious” (1965) and “Inside Daisy Clover” (1965), solidified his presence in the film industry. Throughout the 1960s, Redford graced the silver screen in productions such as “This Property Is Condemned” (1966), “The Chase” (1966), “Barefoot in the Park” (1967), “Downhill Racer” (1969), and “Tell Them Willie Boy Is Here” (1969), showcasing his evolving prowess as an actor.Undoubtedly, the pinnacle of Robert Redford’s early cinematic career came with the release of “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” in 1969. Co-starring alongside Paul Newman, this iconic film not only achieved enormous success at the box office but also solidified Redford’s position as a captivating Hollywood star, drawing audiences with his undeniable charisma. For his exceptional performance in “Butch Cassidy,” Redford was honored with a British Academy of Film and Television Award (BAFTA), marking a notable early accolade in his illustrious career.
The early 1970s marked a remarkable phase for Redford, characterized by a string of blockbuster successes. In 1973, “The Way We Were” ranked as the 11th highest-grossing film of the year, followed by the phenomenal success of “The Sting” in 1974, which claimed the top spot at the box office. Redford’s role in “The Sting” also earned him his sole nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor. This extraordinary run continued with well-received films such as “The Great Gatsby” (1974), “The Great Waldo Pepper” (1975), “Three Days of the Condor” (1975), and “All the President’s Men” (1976). Recognizing his immense popularity, movie exhibitors voted Redford as Hollywood’s top box-office star between 1974 and 1976.
In addition to his prowess in front of the camera, Redford transitioned into directing, with “Ordinary People” (1980) standing out as one of his most renowned and successful endeavors. This poignant film earned four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, further attesting to Redford’s multifaceted talents.
Throughout his illustrious career, Redford received numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts in 1996, a Lifetime Achievement Academy Award in 2002, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2005, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. These honors underscore his enduring impact on the film industry and the arts at large, solidifying his legacy as a true luminary in American cinema.
Robert Redford Personal Life
Robert Redford’s personal life has been marked by significant relationships. In August 1958, he married Lola Van Wagenen in Las Vegas, Nevada. The union between Redford and Van Wagenen resulted in the birth of four children. However, after several years together, they eventually divorced in 1985, marking the conclusion of their long-standing marriage.
In July 2009, Redford entered into a new chapter in his personal life when he married his longtime partner, Sibylle Szaggars. The couple exchanged vows in Hamburg, Germany, solidifying their commitment to each other. This marriage reflects another meaningful connection in Redford’s life, showcasing the enduring nature of his personal relationships over the years.
Robert Redford Retirement
On August 6, 2018, Robert Redford revealed that his role in the upcoming crime comedy “The Old Man & the Gun” would mark the conclusion of his extensive and distinguished acting career. Redford, expressing a sense of closure, shared with Entertainment Weekly, “Never say never, but I pretty well concluded that this would be it for me in terms of acting, and [I’ll] move towards retirement after this ’cause I’ve been doing it since I was 21.” He added, “I thought, ‘Well, that’s enough.’ And why not go out with something that’s very upbeat and positive?”
This announcement marked a significant moment in the cinematic landscape, as Redford, after decades of captivating performances, chose this particular project as a fitting farewell to his acting career. “The Old Man & the Gun” served as a poignant and positive note on which to conclude a remarkable chapter in Redford’s life, leaving an indelible legacy in the world of film.
Robert Redford Age
Born on August 18, 1936, Robert Redford is a distinguished American actor, director, producer, and environmental activist. As of August 2023, he is 87 years old. Renowned for his captivating personality and exceptional talent, Redford has ascended to the status of a Hollywood legend. Over the course of his illustrious six-decade career, he has left an enduring mark on the film industry, embodying qualities of brilliance and honesty. Beyond his contributions to cinema, Redford’s commitment to environmental activism further underscores his multifaceted impact on both the entertainment world and broader societal issues.
Robert Redford Net Worth and Income
Robert Redford, the American actor, director, producer, and environmentalist, boasts a significant net worth of $200 million. His enduring legacy in the film industry is marked by iconic performances in acclaimed films such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “The Sting,” “The Candidate,” and his directorial triumph, “Ordinary People.” Redford’s influence extends beyond the screen as the founder of the Sundance Film Festival, a pivotal platform for independent filmmakers that has grown into a cornerstone of the movie industry. His multifaceted career and contributions have solidified him as a prominent figure in both Hollywood and environmental advocacy.
QUICK FACTS
Name: Robert Redford
Birth Year: 1936
Birth Date: August 18, 1936
Birth State: California
Birth City: Santa Monica
Birth Country: United States
Gender: Male
Best Known For: Hollywood legend Robert Redford is acclaimed for his roles in iconic films such as ‘The Sting’ and ‘The Way We Were.’ Beyond his prowess as an actor, he has proven to be a versatile figure as a director, producer, and entrepreneur, notably founding the Sundance Institute in the early ’80s.
Industries:
Film
Theater and Dance
Drama
Comedy
Action
Television
Astrological Sign: Leo
Schools:
American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Van Nuys High School
Pratt Institute
University of Colorado
