In one of his last social media posts, Redford put his fans firstpublished at 15:19 BST
The last post on Redford’s Instagram account – prior to the one we just mentioned – includes lines from the star looking back over his life and career as he celebrated his 89th birthday in August.
“Happy Birthday To My Humble Self,” he began.
Quote MessageFirstly, I want to thank my fans been with me through every step, from Butch Cassidy to Ordinary People, and your support has meant the world. Your love for my work keeps me grounded and grateful.”
Robert Redford
He noted how winning a Bafta Award for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid in 1971 “showed I could hold my own”, and winning an Oscar for directing 1980’s Ordinary People “was a dream come true”.
His proudest achievement, though, was founding the Sundance Institute in 1981 and “sparking the indie film movement”.
He added: “Honors like the Presidential Medal of Freedom and my Time 100 nod reflect a life of storytelling and advocacy.”
He faced setbacks like dropping out of college and losing his mother when she was 40, he said.
“I hustled through small TV roles, learned on Broadway, and took risks directing and building Sundance. Personal losses, like my son Scott’s death, taught me resilience. It was grit, passion, and a love for art that got me here.
“I’m thrilled my films, from The Sting to A River Runs Through It, have moved you, sparked conversations, or brought comfort. Sundance has given new filmmakers a voice, and my environmental work has inspired some to care for our planet.”
He concluded: “Your support makes it all worthwhile, thank you for being part of my journey.”