In a revelation that will stun cinema fans, legendary actor Robert Redford has confessed he was paid a pittance for his career-defining role in the classic Western Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
The 87-year-old icon made the startling admission during a candid conversation on the SmartLess podcast, hosted by actors Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes. He disclosed that his now-iconic turn as the Sundance Kid netted him a shockingly low fee, especially compared to his co-star and screen legend, Paul Newman.
The Stark Pay Difference Between Legends
Redford explained that at the time of filming, Newman was already a bona fide A-list movie star, having achieved leading man status years prior. Redford, however, was still primarily known for his work on the stage.
"He was a big star," Redford stated. "I was a theatre actor. I got paid nothing... practically nothing. He got paid a fortune."
This vast disparity in their paycheques highlights the harsh realities of Hollywood's hierarchy, even when pairing two actors who would become one of the most beloved duos in film history.
More Than Money: The Role That Changed Everything
While the financial reward was minimal, Redford acknowledged that the true value of the film was immeasurable for his career. The movie's phenomenal success in 1969 catapulted him from a respected theatre actor to a global silver screen sensation almost overnight.
"It was a game-changer for me," he told the podcast hosts. The role cemented his status as a leading man and paved the way for a decades-long career as both an acclaimed actor and an Oscar-winning director.
The film's success and the powerful chemistry between the two leads spawned a second successful pairing in the 1973 Oscar-winning hit The Sting.
A Lasting Legacy
Despite the initial low pay, Redford's confession adds a fascinating layer to the story of one of cinema's greatest buddy films. His focus on the artistic and career impact, rather than the financial slight, speaks to his dedication to the craft.
The revelation offers a rare glimpse into the business behind the glamour of old Hollywood, showing that even the brightest stars had to start somewhere, often for a salary that would be considered shocking by today's standards.
