Tributes pour in remembering Robert Redford’s lasting impact on Utah and the film industry

Robert Redford, the actor, director, producer and founder of the Sundance Institute and Film Festival, died Tuesday at age 89.

Tributes to Redford began flowing in immediately after his death:

“Actor, activist, passionate environmentalist, and champion of the arts. His unwavering commitment to protecting our planet and inspiring change matched his immense talent. His impact will endure for generations to come.”

— Leonardo DiCaprio, actor and producer, on Instagram.

“Decades ago, Robert Redford came to Utah and fell in love with this place. He cherished our landscapes and built a legacy that made Utah a home for storytelling and creativity. Through Sundance and his devotion to conservation, he shared Utah with the world. Today we honor his life, his vision, and his lasting contribution to our state.”

— Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on the social media platform X.

“Bob’s vision of a space and a platform for independent voices launched a movement that, over four decades later, has inspired generations of artists and redefined cinema in the U.S. and around the world ... We are humbled to be among the stewards of his remarkable legacy, which will continue to guide the Institute in perpetuity.”

— The Sundance Institute, which Redford founded in 1981.

“He will be remembered as one of the great storytellers in our country’s history. He elevated stories beyond the mainstream. He not only cared about the environment, but he took all conceivable actions to protect it.”

— Bob Woodward, investigative journalist whom Redford portrayed in the 1976 film “All the President’s Men,” via X.

“I always admired Robert Redford, not only for his legendary career as an actor and director but for what came next. He championed progressive values like protecting the environment and access to the arts while creating opportunities for new generations of activists and filmmakers. A true American icon.”

—Hillary Clinton, former secretary of state, on Instagram.

“Our film, ‘CODA,’ came to the attention of everyone because of Sundance. And Sundance happened because of Robert Redford. A genius has passed. RIP Robert.”

— Marlee Matlin, actress and author, on X.

“He embodies all the elements of a classic Western with a soulful hero at its core. ... His legacy will always remain deeply ingrained in the culture and essence of Utah, including the platform he created for independent filmmakers, the generations of artists and audiences he inspired, and his commitment to honoring the land, From championing Utah-made classics, “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “Jeremiah Johnson,” and “The Electric Horseman,” to establishing the Sundance Film Festival, Utah will forever remain grateful and inspired by his vision."

— Virginia Pearce, director of the Utah Film Commission.

“In uncertain times, I think of what he both lived for and advocated for in his actions: meaningful storytelling that brings people together by conveying complex emotions into powerful inspiration … and solace in the outdoors through his stewardship of the environment.”

— Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall.

“Robert Redford changed the trajectory of Park City and left an indelible mark on Utah. Through his vision for the Sundance Film Festival, he brought world-class art to our mountains and introduced so many of us to the power of independent film. He was a maverick — unafraid to chart his own path — showing that ideas and creativity can flourish even amid our differences. His legacy is both beautiful and profound, and one for which we all should be deeply grateful.”

— Nann Worel, mayor of Park City, where the Sundance Film Festival has been held for over 40 years.

“More than a movie star, Redford cared deeply about amplifying voices of independent artists and strived to tell stories that otherwise would go unnoticed.”

— KRCL, the radio station for which Redford help secure its initial funding, wrote on Instagram.

“Robert Redford, our ultimate champion of independent film, relentless advocate for authentic storytelling and fiercely passionate environmentalist. Robert’s legacy remains ingrained in our culture, transformed by his artistry, activism and the founding of Sundance Institute and Film Festival.”

— Ethan Hawke, actor, director and writer, via Instagram.

“Through [Sundance], he not only shaped the landscape of independent film, but also cemented Utah as a place where stories are told and celebrated. His legacy is one to remember: opening doors for artists, amplifying their voices, and inspiring future generations of filmmakers to create and tell meaningful stories ... our very first programs at Spy Hop began with young filmmakers — and we see Robert’s influence every day in the passion of youth to tell their stories."

— Spy Hop, a youth digital media arts center, via Instagram.

“I’m saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend Robert Redford. He was a great actor, who loved Utah, and brought the world to Sundance with the Sundance film festival. I offer my sincere condolences to his family and all who knew and loved him.”

— Former Utah Gov. Gary R. Herbert, via X.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of the incomparable Robert Redford — a true legend whose acting and directing inspired us throughout our careers. His legacy will live on through his extraordinary films, his incredible performances, his tireless activism, and the profound influence that Sundance has had on the trajectory of the industry, and the lives of thousands of filmmakers. There are very few people who have impacted modern storytelling as significantly as Robert … and we are deeply grateful for our time with him."

— The Russo Brothers (Anthony and Joseph), directors, on Instagram.

“I grew up with his movies: his quiet, unforced performances and ever-present grace. He was THE movie star, and will be greatly missed.”

— James Gunn, filmmaker, on X.

“Our hearts are heavy today, and our screens feel a little dimmer with the loss of our very own Sundance Kid, Robert Redford. Many of us at Salt Lake Film Society had personal ties to him, having worked alongside his vision to champion independent artists in film. There is not one of us working to exhibit, create, and preserve cinema who has not been profoundly influenced by his dedication to independent voices.

We can think of no other individual who has had such a lasting and generous impact on the lives of filmmakers and audiences alike. The entire ecosystem of independent film in Utah — and far beyond — can be traced back to one spark: his decision to launch a film festival in the mountains of Utah."

— The Salt Lake Film Society in a statement.

“It is impossible to overstate the impact that Robert Redford had on this world. As a filmmaker, a philanthropist, a performer and more, Robert Redford is the essence of cinema. From ”Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" to “All the President’s Men” and for decades beyond, he set a standard of excellence that all actors aspire to. His Sundance Film Festival launched the careers of countless filmmakers and elevated the work of so many performers. He was a man of civics and art.“

— Sean Astin, President of The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

“RDT mourns the loss of Robert Redford, a champion for the arts and the environment. We are grateful for the numerous ways that he supported RDT, including hosting our company during several Sundance workshops that explored the field of Dance for the Camera, serving on RDT’s Honorary Advisory Board, and leading our 15th anniversary fundraising campaign. We will always appreciate his support of our mission and for the many outstanding contributions he made to nurture and advocate for the arts.”

— Repertory Dance Theatre via Instagram.