Hollywood and cinema lovers around the world are in shock as actor-filmmaker Robert Redford has died at his home in Provo, Utah. The authorities or the family of the actor are yet to reveal further details about the actor’s death. Often referred to as the Golden Boy, Redford was an actor, environmentalist, producer and director. Despite the success he saw in his professional life, the actor had a long and hard journey, one consisting of several tragedies and turning points that would change him forever.
Born in Santa Monica, California, Robert Redford struggled with polio and bad grades while growing up. During Inside the Actor, he described himself as a “bad” student. His inclination towards the arts took him to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. A brief stint in Europe and on Broadway soon opened doors to Hollywood, where he shot to worldwide fame with the film Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. A string of great roles in movies like Sting and All The President’s Men proved that Redford was an immovable object when it came to acting, but his journey to this point was not perfect.
When Robert Redford was a teenager, his mother got pregnant with twin daughters. Even though she was advised to terminate her pregnancy, she decided to go through with it, leading to a blood disorder and haemorrhage while giving birth. Both infants and the mother passed away. As Redford overcame this tragedy and started a family of his own, his first son passed away at the age of just 2 and a half months due to infant death syndrome. The couple still went on to have three more children, but their son Jamie developed serious breathing problems due to being born prematurely. During his teenage years, Jamie developed other health problems but survived after two transplants. He grew up to become a director and an environmental advocate.
Robert Redford’s personal problems and an extremely demanding career took a toll on his marriage. In 1985, Redford and Lola Wagenen separated after 28 years of marriage. They remained close friends after their separation and continued to care for their children together.
Through all the struggles he faced as a son, a father and a husband, Robert Redford continued to be the subject of shock and awe with his acting prowess. His roles in films became small and distant as the 21st century rolled in, but he still continued to make surprising and impactful contributions in films, most notably the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Alexander Pierce. According to report by Celebrity Net Worth, Robert was worth $200 million (Rs 1761 crore).
