Robert Redford, Hollywood Icon and Sundance Founder, Dies at 89

Robert Redford, who passed away at 89 in his Utah home, was not only a celebrated Hollywood actor and Oscar-winning director but also a passionate environmentalist and a champion of independent cinema. He co-founded the Sundance Film Festival, which grew under his guidance from a modest event into America's most prestigious film festival, fostering emerging filmmakers outside the Hollywood system. Redford was renowned for iconic roles in films like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," "The Sting," and "All the President's Men," and he won Best Director for his debut film "Ordinary People." Beyond his cinematic achievements, Redford lived as a true Western icon, embracing the Rocky Mountain lifestyle and dedicating himself to conservation and promoting independent artistic voices. His legacy is marked by a blend of artistic excellence, environmental advocacy, and a deep connection to the American West, making him a beloved figure both on and off screen. His impact continues to resonate through the Sundance Institute and the cultural landscape he helped shape.