Robert Redford is an American actor, director, producer, and environmentalist, renowned for his contributions to the film industry and his commitment to environmental conservation. Born on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, he has become a significant figure in American cinema.
Early Life and Education
Robert Redford was born on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, as Charles Robert Redford Jr. His father, Charles Robert Redford Sr., worked as an accountant for Standard Oil, and his mother, Martha Hart, was a homemaker. Raised in the urban sprawl of California, Robert’s early years were marked by a mix of challenges and opportunities that would later shape his character and career.
Growing up in a middle-class family, Redford attended Van Nuys High School in Los Angeles, where he was involved in sports, particularly baseball, and cultivated a growing interest in the arts. It was during his time in high school that he first became interested in acting and painting. His academic struggles were balanced by his passion for sports and his growing involvement in school plays, which would ultimately point him toward a career in the arts.
After graduating from Van Nuys, Redford attended the University of Colorado in Boulder. There, he enrolled in an art program and began to pursue a serious interest in painting. However, he left the university after a brief time, finding the academic environment difficult and feeling disconnected from his studies. Undeterred, Redford continued to pursue his artistic ambitions and, in search of a more focused path, moved to New York City to study at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. It was here that Redford honed his acting skills and made crucial connections that would later propel him into a successful film career. He also briefly attended the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn to study painting, continuing his passion for the arts alongside his theater education.
In New York, Redford worked odd jobs to support himself while studying acting, performing in various theater productions and learning the craft in its most raw and unpolished form. This period in his life was a crucial step in the development of his multifaceted artistic persona. He worked hard to overcome his academic shortcomings and solidify his identity as an actor, all the while nurturing his artistic talents.
Personal Life
Robert Redford’s personal life has been as impactful as his professional career. He has had two major marriages, both of which have shaped his life in profound ways. In 1958, Redford married Lola Van Wagenen, a fellow student and environmentalist. Together, they had four children: Scott (who tragically passed away at a young age), Shauna, David, and Amy. The couple’s marriage lasted until 1985, when they divorced, primarily due to the pressures of their high-profile careers. Redford’s relationship with Van Wagenen was one of mutual respect, as they shared a strong commitment to social causes, particularly in the realm of environmentalism.
Redford found love again in 2009, when he married Sibylle Szaggars, a German painter known for her environmental art. Their marriage, though a more private affair compared to his previous union, has been a source of happiness for Redford in his later years. Together, they have focused their efforts on environmental activism, particularly through their nonprofit organization, The Way of the Rain. The organization aims to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and climate change. Redford’s personal life has remained relatively low-key in comparison to his public persona, but his dedication to family and the environment has remained unwavering.
In addition to his family and marriage, Robert Redford has also been active in philanthropic causes. His commitment to protecting the environment and promoting social justice has been a central aspect of his personal life. He has used his celebrity status to bring attention to issues such as climate change, wildlife conservation, and environmental degradation. His involvement with the Sundance Institute and Sundance Film Festival, which he founded in 1981, reflects his personal interest in supporting independent filmmakers and artists who share his passion for social change.
Family
Redford’s family has played a central role in shaping his worldview and career. His parents, Charles and Martha, were loving but pragmatic people who instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility and a deep respect for hard work. Growing up, Redford was very close to his mother, who encouraged his artistic talents and supported his career decisions. Although his father, Charles, was more practical in his approach to life, his influence helped instill in Robert the value of persistence and determination.
Redford’s children have also been an important part of his life. His son Scott, tragically, died in 1959 at just two months old. This devastating loss deeply affected Redford, and the pain of losing his child is something he has spoken about throughout his life. Despite this tragedy, Redford went on to have three more children—Shauna, David, and Amy—who have remained important sources of support and inspiration throughout his career. Redford’s son David is an accomplished environmentalist and filmmaker, following in his father’s footsteps in his dedication to the arts and social causes.
Redford has also been a supportive grandfather to his grandchildren, continuing his role as a protector of family values. His connection to family is one of the constants in his life, even as his fame and personal responsibilities have often taken him to different corners of the world.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Robert Redford Jr. |
| Date of Birth | August 18, 1936 |
| Place of Birth | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Parents | Charles Robert Redford Sr. (father), Martha Hart (mother) |
| Height | 5 feet 10½ inches (1.79 meters) |
| Spouse | Lola Van Wagenen (m. 1958; div. 1985), Sibylle Szaggars (m. 2009) |
| Children | Scott (deceased), Shauna, David, Amy |
| Occupation | Actor, Director, Producer, Environmentalist |
| Net Worth (2025) | Approximately $170 million |
Career
Robert Redford’s career has been one of the most influential in the history of American cinema. His journey to stardom began in the late 1950s with television appearances on various series, but it was his role in the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) that propelled him into the spotlight. Redford, alongside co-star Paul Newman, became a Hollywood icon, embodying the charm and masculinity that would define much of his screen persona. This film, a blend of comedy, drama, and action, was a massive success and earned Redford his first Academy Award nomination.
The 1970s were a transformative period for Redford, as he solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s top leading men. He starred in the critically acclaimed The Sting (1973), once again with Newman, which won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Redford’s performances during this time showcased his versatility as an actor, allowing him to play both rugged heroes and more sensitive, introspective roles. His role in All the President’s Men (1976), portraying journalist Bob Woodward alongside Dustin Hoffman, further cemented his reputation as a serious actor.
While Redford’s success as an actor continued through the 1980s with hits like Out of Africa (1985) and The Natural (1984), his directorial career also began to take shape. His directorial debut, Ordinary People (1980), a drama about a family struggling with grief, was a critical and commercial success. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, marking Redford as a prominent filmmaker in his own right. Over the next few decades, Redford continued to direct and produce films that reflected his commitment to social causes and personal values, including A River Runs Through It (1992) and The Horse Whisperer (1998).
In 1981, Redford founded the Sundance Institute, an organization dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers and promoting artistic innovation. The Sundance Film Festival, which is held annually in Park City, Utah, has become one of the most prestigious events for independent films and filmmakers. Redford’s commitment to independent cinema has helped bring new voices to the forefront of the industry, and the festival remains an important platform for emerging filmmakers.
Throughout his career, Redford has consistently used his platform to advocate for environmentalism and social change. His legacy as both an actor and a director has been marked by a commitment to quality storytelling, artistic freedom, and the preservation of the natural world.
In conclusion, Robert Redford’s life and career are a testament to the power of art and activism. From his humble beginnings in California to becoming a Hollywood legend, Redford has remained true to his values, using his fame and fortune to champion causes that matter to him and to inspire generations of filmmakers and activists. His impact on both the entertainment industry and the world at large continues to be felt, as he remains one of the most respected figures in the world of cinema and beyond.
Latest News
Robert Redford’s California Home Sells Above Asking Price
In December 2024, Robert Redford and his wife, Sibylle Szaggars Redford, sold their waterfront home in Tiburon, California, for $4.65 million, exceeding the $4.15 million asking price. The 2,824-square-foot property, featuring four bedrooms and scenic views of Keil Cove and Angel Island, was purchased by fitness entrepreneur Cricket Wardein. Redford and his wife, who now primarily reside in Santa Fe, New Mexico, had made several upgrades to the home during their ownership.
This sale reflects the booming real estate market in Tiburon, where the median home price increased by 12% over the past year.
Redford’s decision to sell the property aligns with his and his wife’s focus on environmental conservation efforts through their nonprofit organization, The Way of the Rain.
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Height and Physical Appearance
Robert Redford stands at 5 feet 10½ inches (1.79 meters) tall. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his charismatic screen presence, characterized by his blond hair, blue eyes, and rugged features. Even in his later years, Redford has maintained a distinguished and graceful appearance, embodying the classic Hollywood leading man.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Robert Redford’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $170 million. His wealth has been accumulated through his long and successful career as an actor, director, and producer. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Redford has made wise investments in real estate and other ventures. He is also a well-known philanthropist, and much of his wealth has been used to fund charitable endeavors, particularly those related to the arts and environmental causes.
FAQS
- Who is Robert Redford in love with?
Robert Redford is married to Sibylle Szaggars, a German-born artist. They have been together for many years and share a strong bond, with Redford often expressing his deep affection for her. - Did Robert Redford lose any children?
Yes, Robert Redford tragically lost his son, Scott Redford, in 1959. Scott died at the age of 2 from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, his daughter, Shauna Redford, is alive and well. - Who is Robert Redford’s ex-wife?
Robert Redford was previously married to Lola Van Wagenen, whom he married in 1958. They divorced in 1985 after nearly 30 years of marriage. - What did Robert Redford say when Paul Newman died?
When Paul Newman passed away in 2008, Robert Redford expressed deep grief, stating that Newman was “a great actor and a great friend,” and that the world had lost an iconic figure. He also mentioned how they had a unique and lasting friendship that spanned their careers.
