Robert Redford, the actor, director, producer and founder of the Sundance Institute and Film Festival died Tuesday at the age of 89.
Tributes to Redford began flowing in immediately after his death:
“Decades ago, Robert Redford came to Utah and fell in love with this place. He cherished our landscapes and built a legacy that made Utah a home for storytelling and creativity,” wrote Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on the social media platform X. “Through Sundance and his devotion to conservation, he shared Utah with the world. Today we honor his life, his vision, and his lasting contribution to our state.”
The Sundance Institute, which Redford founded in 1981, also shared a statement on his death, saying “Bob’s vision of a space and a platform for independent voices launched a movement that, over four decades later, has inspired generations of artists and redefined cinema in the U.S. and around the world … We are humbled to be among the stewards of his remarkable legacy, which will continue to guide the Institute in perpetuity.”
The Utah Film Commission, meanwhile, wrote on Instagram:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Robert Redford. Throughout his iconic career as an actor, director and producer, Redford nurtured great stories and artists. His passion for storytelling elevated the craft of filmmaking and his impact will be felt for years to come. He will be greatly missed and remembered.”
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall wrote that Redford left a legacy on the Beehive State that won’t be forgotten.
“In uncertain times,” the mayor wrote, “I think of what he both lived for and advocated for in his actions: meaningful storytelling that brings people together by conveying complex emotions into powerful inspiration … and solace in the outdoors through his stewardship of the environment.”