How Old Is Robert Redford? A Comprehensive Look At The Life And Career Of The Iconic Actor Today
It's a curious thing, isn't it, how some figures in the public eye seem to defy the passage of time, holding a special place in our collective imagination? Robert Redford is, in a way, one of those truly remarkable individuals. For decades, his presence on screen, and his work behind the camera, have shaped how we think about storytelling in cinema. Many people, you know, still wonder about his life, his enduring charm, and, yes, the simple question of how old is Robert Redford.
This article aims to provide a thoughtful look at his journey, from his early beginnings to his status as a true legend. We'll explore the key moments that defined his acting career, the visionary projects he brought to life as a director, and his lasting impact on the film world. It's really quite a story, full of different turns and moments of brilliance, so we'll cover it all.
Today, as we consider his remarkable run, we'll delve into the various aspects that make him such an important figure. From his captivating performances to his dedication to independent cinema, there's a lot to appreciate. We'll also, as a matter of fact, get right to the heart of that age question, placing it within the broader context of a life very well lived.
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Table of Contents
- Robert Redford: A Look at His Life and Legacy
- The Early Days: From Stage to Screen
- Rising to Stardom: Iconic Roles
- Beyond Acting: A Visionary Director
- Sundance: A Legacy of Independent Film
- Later Years and Continued Impact
- Robert Redford's Age Today
- Frequently Asked Questions About Robert Redford
Robert Redford: A Look at His Life and Legacy
Robert Redford, whose full name is Charles Robert Redford Jr., has truly left an undeniable mark on the entertainment world. His career spans many decades, and he has been a consistent presence, shifting from a captivating actor to a highly respected director and then to a champion of independent voices in film. It's pretty amazing, actually, to see how much he has accomplished.
He has always seemed to possess a certain kind of quiet intensity, both on screen and off. This quality, in a way, has allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from charming rogues to serious, thoughtful men. His work really speaks for itself, showing a deep commitment to his craft, which is something quite special.
Personal Details and Early Life
To truly appreciate the man, it helps to know a little about where he started. His journey, like many, began with humble beginnings, and his early life certainly shaped the person he would become. It’s interesting, you know, to see how those first experiences can lay the groundwork for so much later success.
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| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Robert Redford Jr. |
| Birth Date | August 18, 1936 |
| Birth Place | Santa Monica, California, U.S. |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) |
| Spouse(s) | Lola Van Wagenen (m. 1958; div. 1985), Sibylle Szaggars (m. 2009) |
| Children | Shauna Redford, James Redford (deceased), Amy Redford, Scott Anthony Redford (deceased) |
| Education | University of Colorado Boulder (briefly), Pratt Institute (briefly) |
Born in Santa Monica, California, in 1936, Robert Redford's early life was, in some respects, quite different from the glamorous world he would later inhabit. His family moved around a bit, and he experienced a range of environments. He was, apparently, a bit of a free spirit even then, drawn to the outdoors and to art.
He spent some time at the University of Colorado Boulder, and later, he even went to the Pratt Institute in New York to study art. These early explorations, in a way, show a young man searching for his path, experimenting with different avenues before finding his true calling in acting. It's a common story, you know, but his certainly stands out.
The Early Days: From Stage to Screen
Before he became a household name in movies, Robert Redford actually began his acting journey on the stage. He appeared in several Broadway productions in the late 1950s and early 1960s, gaining valuable experience and honing his craft. This foundation, you know, was pretty important for what came next.
His good looks and natural charisma quickly caught the eye of casting directors, and he soon made the jump to television. He appeared in various popular TV shows of the era, including "Maverick," "Alfred Hitchcock Presents," and "The Twilight Zone." These roles, in a way, allowed him to gain exposure and build his reputation as a promising young talent.
His film debut came in 1962 with "War Hunt," a war drama. While it wasn't a huge hit, it gave him a chance to show what he could do on the big screen. It was, however, his role in the 1967 film "Barefoot in the Park," opposite Jane Fonda, that truly began to establish him as a leading man. That movie, which was based on a Neil Simon play, really showcased his comedic timing and his ability to connect with an audience, so it was a big moment.
Rising to Stardom: Iconic Roles
The late 1960s and 1970s were, quite frankly, a golden era for Robert Redford, as he starred in a string of highly successful and critically acclaimed films that cemented his status as a major movie star. His roles during this period are, in some respects, still some of the most memorable in cinema history. He just seemed to pick all the right ones, you know.
One of his most enduring partnerships was with Paul Newman. Their chemistry was, basically, undeniable in films like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969) and "The Sting" (1973). These movies, which were both directed by George Roy Hill, became instant classics, defining the buddy film genre for a generation. "Butch Cassidy," for example, captured the spirit of the Old West with a fresh, modern sensibility, and "The Sting" was a clever, intricate caper that won multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It's pretty incredible, actually, how well those films still hold up.
Redford continued to deliver powerful performances in a variety of genres. In "Jeremiah Johnson" (1972), he portrayed a mountain man seeking solitude, showing a different, more rugged side. Then came "All the President's Men" (1976), where he played journalist Bob Woodward, alongside Dustin Hoffman's Carl Bernstein. This film, which depicted the Watergate scandal, was a gripping political thriller that highlighted his serious acting chops and his commitment to stories with social relevance. It was, to be honest, a very important film for its time.
He also starred in "The Natural" (1984), a beloved baseball film where he played an aging slugger seeking redemption. And, of course, there was "Out of Africa" (1985), opposite Meryl Streep, a sweeping romantic drama that won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. These roles, you know, truly showcased his versatility and his ability to command the screen in diverse settings. He just had that certain something, didn't he?
Beyond Acting: A Visionary Director
While his acting career brought him immense fame, Robert Redford also proved to be a gifted storyteller behind the camera. His directorial debut, "Ordinary People" (1980), was, quite frankly, a stunning success. It was a powerful family drama that explored grief and mental health with incredible sensitivity. This film, in a way, surprised many people, showing a depth that perhaps wasn't fully anticipated from a leading man.
The movie went on to win four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and, perhaps most notably, Best Director for Redford himself. This win was a clear signal that he was not just an actor who tried directing; he was a serious filmmaker with a distinct vision. It was, you know, a pretty big statement to make so early in his directing career.
He continued to direct a number of other notable films, each reflecting his thoughtful approach to storytelling and his interest in human relationships. "The Milagro Beanfield War" (1988) was a charming and whimsical tale, while "A River Runs Through It" (1992) was a beautiful and poignant adaptation of Norman Maclean's novella, earning Brad Pitt significant attention. He also directed "Quiz Show" (1994), a compelling drama about the 1950s quiz show scandals, which received multiple Oscar nominations. He really has, in a way, a knack for picking compelling stories.
His directorial style often favors naturalistic performances and strong emotional resonance. He tends to focus on character-driven narratives, exploring themes of family, integrity, and the American spirit. It's actually quite clear that he brings the same kind of careful attention to detail to his directing as he does to his acting, which is pretty cool.
Sundance: A Legacy of Independent Film
Perhaps one of Robert Redford's most significant contributions to the film world extends beyond his own performances and directorial efforts. He is, you know, widely recognized as the driving force behind the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival. This initiative, in a way, truly changed the landscape for independent filmmakers.
He founded the Sundance Institute in 1981 with the goal of fostering independent filmmaking and supporting new, emerging voices in cinema. He saw a need for a place where artists could develop their craft away from the pressures of the mainstream Hollywood system. It was, basically, a groundbreaking idea at the time, and it really took off.
The Sundance Film Festival, which grew out of the Institute's efforts, has become the premier showcase for independent films from around the globe. Many of today's most respected directors, writers, and actors got their start or gained significant recognition at Sundance. Think about it: directors like Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, and Paul Thomas Anderson all had early work screened there. It's, as a matter of fact, a testament to Redford's vision and his belief in the power of unique stories.
His commitment to independent cinema reflects a deeper philosophy about art and storytelling. He believes in the importance of diverse perspectives and voices, and he has worked tirelessly to create a platform for those who might otherwise be overlooked. This legacy, in a way, will likely continue to influence cinema for many years to come, which is pretty amazing to consider. You can learn more about Sundance on our site.
Later Years and Continued Impact
Even as he has moved into his later years, Robert Redford has continued to work, though at a somewhat slower pace. He has taken on roles that feel right for him, often playing characters with a quiet strength or a contemplative nature. His presence on screen, you know, still carries a certain weight, a kind of wisdom that comes with experience.
Recent notable acting roles include "All Is Lost" (2013), a remarkable performance where he carried the entire film as a lone sailor lost at sea, with almost no dialogue. It was, honestly, a truly captivating display of his acting prowess, showing that he could still deliver powerful performances even without many words. He also appeared in "Pete's Dragon" (2016), a charming family film, and "The Old Man & the Gun" (2018), which he stated would be his last acting role. That film, basically, felt like a fitting capstone to a long and distinguished career, showcasing his signature charm and wit.
While he has largely stepped away from acting, his influence remains strong, particularly through the Sundance Institute. He has created something that will endure, something that nurtures new talent and keeps the spirit of independent filmmaking alive. His impact, in a way, goes far beyond the movies he made himself, extending to countless other films and filmmakers. It's a pretty incredible legacy, you know, to have built something so lasting.
His career, which has spanned more than six decades, is a prime example of sustained excellence and adaptability in a constantly changing industry. He has, in some respects, seen it all and done it all, yet he has always maintained a certain integrity and a clear vision. This dedication, to be honest, is what makes him such a respected figure in the world of entertainment.
Robert Redford's Age Today
So, to address the primary question directly: how old is Robert Redford a comprehensive look at the life and career of the iconic actor? As of October 26, 2023, Robert Redford was born on August 18, 1936. This means he is currently 87 years old. It's a significant age, of course, but his vibrant contributions to film make it feel, in a way, almost secondary to his enduring impact.
When we talk about someone being "old," the meaning can, as a matter of fact, vary quite a bit. The term "old" can simply mean having existed for many years, but it can also carry connotations of being "venerable" or "ancient" in a very positive sense. Robert Redford, you know, embodies that more profound meaning. He's not just "old" in terms of years; he's "venerable" because of his vast experience and the incredible body of work he has created.
His age, in some respects, only adds to the richness of his story. He has witnessed, and participated in, so many changes in the film industry, adapting and evolving while staying true to his artistic principles. It's pretty rare, actually, to see such a long and consistently impactful career. His life truly shows how "old may apply to either actual or merely relative length" when you consider how timeless his work still feels. We also offer big and tall sizes for adults and other information here.
His enduring appeal and his lasting contributions to film are, basically, what truly define him, far more than just the number of years he has lived. He remains a beloved figure, a symbol of a certain kind of classic Hollywood charm mixed with a deep artistic integrity. It's really quite something, isn't it?
Frequently Asked Questions About Robert Redford
People often have questions about Robert Redford, given his long and distinguished career. Here are some common inquiries:
Is Robert Redford still acting?
While Robert Redford has largely stepped away from acting, he did state that "The Old Man & the Gun" (2018) would be his final acting role. He has, you know, focused more on his work with the Sundance Institute and other personal projects in recent years. So, while he might not be appearing in new films as an actor, his influence on cinema is still very much alive.
What are Robert Redford's most famous movies?
Robert Redford has starred in many iconic films, but some of his most famous include "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969), "The Sting" (1973), "All the President's Men" (1976), "The Natural" (1984), and "Out of Africa" (1985). These movies, in a way, really showcase his range and his enduring appeal as a leading man. He just had that special something, didn't he?
What is the Sundance Film Festival?
The Sundance Film Festival is a major annual film festival organized by the Sundance Institute, which Robert Redford founded. It's, basically, the largest independent film festival in the United States, held each January in Park City, Utah. The festival provides a vital platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work and gain recognition. It's a really important event, you know, for new voices in cinema.
Robert Redford's journey is, in some respects, a truly inspiring one, marked by a blend of natural talent, hard work, and a clear vision. From his early days on stage to his iconic film roles and his groundbreaking work with Sundance, he has consistently pushed boundaries and championed artistic integrity. His age, which is 87 as of today, October 26, 2023, simply adds another layer to the story of a man who has lived a full and incredibly impactful life. He has, in a way, shown us what it means to be a true artist, always seeking new challenges and always committed to the craft. His legacy, you know, will surely continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and movie lovers alike. To learn more about his incredible filmography, you can check out his profile on a site like IMDb, which is pretty comprehensive.
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