Robert Redford At 88: A Look At His Life, Career & Legacy
Is it possible to remain a Hollywood icon for over six decades while simultaneously striving for artistic integrity and environmental activism? Robert Redford, at 88 years old as of 2024, not only proves it's possible but has seemingly made it his life's work. From stealing hubcaps as a youth to gracing the silver screen with an undeniable charisma, Redford's journey is a compelling study in contrasts and a testament to enduring influence.
Born Charles Robert Redford Jr. on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, to Charles Robert Redford, an accountant for Standard Oil, and Martha Redford, the future star's early life held hints of the rebel spirit that would later define him. Losing his mother at the age of 18 shaped his formative years. He was a scrappy kid who stole hubcaps in high school, a youthful indiscretion that hinted at a rebellious streak, and he lost his college baseball scholarship at the University of Colorado Boulder due to his youthful exuberance. This early period laid the foundation for a career that would see him navigate the complexities of Hollywood while remaining true to his own convictions. But, it was also to be a career marked by profound personal loss, including the tragic passing of his son Scott from sudden infant death syndrome at a tender age, and the death of his son James at the age of 58 due to liver cancer.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Robert Redford Jr. |
| Born | August 18, 1936, Santa Monica, California, United States |
| Age (as of 2024) | 88 years old |
| Marital Status | Married to Sibylle Szaggars (since 2009) |
| Previous Marriage | Lola Van Wagenen (1958-1985) |
| Children | Scott (deceased), Shauna, David, Amy, James (deceased) |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Producer, Environmental Activist |
| Net Worth (as of 2024) | $200 million |
| Education | Van Nuys High School, University of Colorado Boulder |
| Star Sign | Leo |
| Current Residence | Santa Monica, California, United States |
| Notable Roles | Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, Jeremiah Johnson, All the President's Men, Out of Africa |
| Directing Credits | Ordinary People, A River Runs Through It, Quiz Show |
| Website Reference | IMDb |
Redford's cinematic journey is an undeniable one, a career that has spanned six decades and encompassed both leading roles and behind-the-camera endeavors. His performances are etched in cinematic history, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, with Paul Newman, propelled him to international fame. The Sting further solidified his stardom, winning him an Academy Award. In 1972, Redford starred in the survival film Jeremiah Johnson, showcasing a grittier, more rugged side of his persona. He is considered as one of the most iconic actors of all time. He has delivered incredible performance throughout his career. His role as the titular trapper was gritty, gruff and brutal all adjectives wed consider to be the makings of a
Beyond his acting prowess, Redfords directorial efforts, such as Ordinary People, which won him an Academy Award for Best Director, and A River Runs Through It, showcase his multifaceted talents. His interest in independent filmmaking led him to establish the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, which has become a cornerstone of independent cinema, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers and fostering creativity outside the mainstream Hollywood system. It underscores his commitment to fostering new talent and diverse voices within the film industry, which is as impactful as his work on screen. The sundance kid is back. Robert Redford, 88, appeared onscreen for the first time in six years with a cameo in the AMC / AMC+ show Dark Winds.
Redford's life has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. The death of his son Scott in infancy was a devastating blow, a tragedy that likely shaped his perspective on life and loss. Later in life, the death of his son James, also came as a painful tragedy. Throughout it all, Redford has maintained a remarkable level of privacy, rarely sharing details of his personal life with the public. However, at the age of 88, he has finally opened up about a significant part of his life he has long kept hidden. It shows his commitment and love for his family, and gives us the rare glimpse into the deeply personal experiences with love and family. In his personal life, Robert Redford was married to Lola Van Wagenen from 1958 until their divorce in 1985. The couple had four children together: Scott, Shauna, David, and Amy. In 2009, Redford married his longtime partner, Sibylle Szaggars, a German painter. Its hard for me to sit around and do take after take after take. At this point in my life, age 80, itd give me more satisfaction because Im not dependent on anybody. Its just me, just the way it used to be, and so going back to sketching thats sort of where my head is right now.
Redford's commitment to his craft extends beyond the performance itself. He's known for his meticulous attention to detail and his devotion to maintaining his appearance, reflecting a lifelong dedication to his profession. He has always presented himself as an individual who is deeply committed to his craft. His willingness to embrace new artistic challenges and his dedication to his appearance underscore a sustained level of professionalism that has allowed him to endure in the industry. The famously private Robert Redford surprised everyone when he agreed to cooperate with author Michael Feeney Callan on a book about his eventful life, 2011's Robert Redford.
His apartment in Santa Monica, California, is more than a residence; it's a sanctuary. In 2016, Redford was interviewed by his grandson, Dylan Redford, for Walker Art Center and said he was getting tired of acting. He continued, Ive got two acting projects in the works: Our souls at night, with Jane Fonda, a love story for older people who get a second chance in life, and old man with a gun, a lighter piece with Casey. He is dedicated environmental activist. Beyond his cinematic contributions, redford is a dedicated environmental activist. Robert Redford was born Charles Robert Redford Jr. On august 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, united states. Robert redford date of birth : August 18, 1936 (tuesday) robert redford age from date: May 01, 2025 (thursday) robert redford age: 88 years, 8 months, 13 days [ best age calculator ]
As of 2024, Robert Redford's net worth stands at an estimated $200 million, a testament to his enduring success in the entertainment industry. His financial achievements are a result of a career that spans decades, encompassing iconic roles, directing credits, and entrepreneurial ventures. The enduring financial rewards of his endeavors allow him to pursue his passions and support the causes he believes in. Redfords contribution to cinema, the arts and our planet is undeniable. Robert redford fans also viewed iain armitage.
