The Story Robert Redford: Hollywood's Golden Boy - the Sunday Story
Sep 21, 2025
Anna Temkin, Deputy Obituaries Editor at The Times, and Ed Potton, Arts Commissioning Editor at The Times, discuss the complex legacy of Robert Redford. They explore his rise to fame with "Butch Cassidy", his versatility in roles and collaborations, and rejection of Hollywood glamour in favor of environmental commitments. The conversation highlights his pivotal role in founding the Sundance Film Festival, which revolutionized independent cinema. As they unravel Redford's enigmatic persona, they reflect on family tragedies that shaped his private life.
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Breakout Role Defined His Persona
- Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid made Redford a global star by turning outlaws into lovable protagonists.
- The film established Redford's screen persona as a charming, handsome rogue who audiences rooted for.
Youthful Rebellions And European Awakening
- Redford rebelled as a youth, climbing flagpoles for money and once breaking into a studio lot to trash it.
- Travel in Europe after college shaped his outsider view of America and sparked a liberal political awakening.
From Scenic Design To Acting
- Redford drifted into acting after studying scenic design in New York and being advised to understand actors' perspectives.
- He then took acting classes which launched his stage and TV work, leading to Broadway success.
