Robert Redford, the revered Hollywood icon and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, has formally announced his retirement from acting, concluding a glittering career that spanned over six decades.
The 85-year-old actor confirmed the news in a statement, putting to rest any speculation about a return to the screen. His final on-screen appearance was in the 2018 crime thriller The Old Man & The Gun, a role he now confirms was his last.
A Storied Career Comes to a Close
Redford's decision marks the end of an era for an actor who became a defining figure of 20th-century American cinema. His career was built on a foundation of critically acclaimed roles in timeless classics.
He shot to international stardom with films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973), the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. His directorial efforts further cemented his legacy, with Ordinary People (1980) winning him the Oscar for Best Director.
Beyond Acting: The Sundance Legacy
Perhaps equally significant to his on-screen work is Redford's immense contribution to independent film. In 1981, he established the Sundance Institute in Utah, which grew into the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.
This annual event became the world's most influential showcase for independent filmmakers, launching countless careers and transforming the landscape of modern cinema. His work there ensured his impact would be felt long after his final curtain call.
While he steps away from acting, Redford's indelible mark on film—both in front of and behind the camera—secures his place as a true legend of the industry.
