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Said farewell to one of the greatest in cinema lands; a touching tribute came from the actress Rita Wilson for the legendary actor-director Robert Redford. Wilson and the singer spoke of Redford’s near-limitless contribution to cinema and environmentalism and, of course, the Sundance Film Festival that has forever altered the characterization of independent cinema.
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Wilson went online to mourn the passing of the showbiz superstar and to shower praise on him. The post ran through Redford’s chameleonlike career and a multitude of interests and passions that melded to make him one of the most influential figures in an entertainment industry-that existed less along his footsteps and more so along environmental spheres. “Robert Redford. May your art never perish. Your love of young filmmakers and artists gave us Sundance Film Festival. You showed us the importance of nature. From behind the camera as a director, we have witnessed your art. We will always remember you. We shall miss you. May your memory be eternal,” Wilson said.
Soon, wakes were called in honor of everyone who was a fan and admirer of Redford’s craft; hundreds responded by sharing memories and paying tribute to the late actor. Most comments shared personal memories of actors and life events that marked Redford as an artist who left his mark on more than one generation.
Another user paid tribute, saying, “Such a beautiful man and actor. When you think of the 70s, you picture Robert.” All, quite rightly, seemed to echo the sentiments, remembering Redford as a symbol for the glories of Hollywood.
Some comments made ties of a personal nature: “This is sad news. He was my Mom’s favorite actor. She liked him since his Barefoot in the Park, Then The Way We Were, etc.” This shows how Redford penetrated the hearts of several film lovers across several decades.
Others cited some of the less celebrated movies but have louder testament to the fact that the man had presence, “The Last Castle. Underrated, but he made it powerful. Condolences to all who loved him.” A tribute to Redford’s unfailing ability to showcase excellence through his career, even through his later works.
Expressions of condolence were also made by international speakers: “Lucky we lived with legends that we rarely see today…golden era…Safe journey to the other side” (translation). The comment pointing to the undeniable footprint Redford had across the globe and how his art enjoys reciprocal appreciation.
Announcements are said to hurt with statements like “THIS HURTS SO MUCH” and “Oh no. My heart,” showing how deep Redford touched these people’s lives. Another encapsulated the collective feeling: “We felt his heart and soul in his work,” expressing the actual emotional connection Robert gave his audience in his works.
Robert Redford had his career stretched over six decades, starting on television in the early 1960s before finally entering film with quite defining roles of an era of cinema. With classic acting performances in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and All the President’s Men, he became positioned between the biggest selling and most respectable stars of Hollywood. His works gave him equally high acclaim and respect as a director, having received an Academy Award for Ordinary People.
Perhaps his enduring legacy is that of the Sundance Institute and Film Festival he founded in 1981 for the support of independent filmmakers. It has become the premier venue for independent film and the launching pad for so many. Conservation became a major issue for Redford, who did a great deal in trying to get people to conserve, both through legislation and raising public awareness.
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Wilson’s tribute and the almost immediate eruption of fans’ response are testament to the continuing reach Redford still had in the realms of entertainment and cultural consciousness. With his death, an era ends; however, his artistic legacy and the institutions that he created will constrain the stretch of his influence to forthcoming generations. Just as Wilson desired, the undying memory of Robert Redford is now etched in history through the collective love and respect of his colleagues and admirers. Her recent activities, including a throwback duet, show her continued passion for performance. Fans have also enjoyed her new song releases and her excited teases of new music, such as her cover of a Carole King classic.
