by Jane Fonda is remembering her close friend and longtime collaborator, Robert Redford, who passed away at the age of 89 on September 16, 2025. The iconic actress, who worked alongside Redford in four films, shared a heartfelt statement reflecting on the deep bond they shared both on and off screen.
“It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone,” Jane said in an emotional statement to E! News. “I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way.”
A Shared Legacy: Their Onscreen Chemistry
Jane Fonda and Robert Redford first teamed up on the 1966 film The Chase, where they portrayed a married couple facing an unexpected turn of events after Redford’s character escapes from jail and returns home. Their natural chemistry was apparent from their first scene together, which would mark the beginning of their unforgettable partnership on screen.
Over the years, the two actors would go on to work together in three more films: 1967’s Barefoot in the Park, 1979’s The Electric Horseman, and the poignant 2017 drama Our Souls at Night. The last of these projects, Our Souls at Night, held a special place for both Fonda and Redford.
As Fonda said in a 2017 NPR interview, “I never thought I’d get a chance to do this towards the end of my life. It’s like bookends—there was [The] Chase and Barefoot In The Park, and then Our Souls At Night at the other end of life. That just felt really good.” The film’s exploration of aging and companionship resonated deeply with both actors, who had built a decades-long friendship and professional partnership.
For Jane, the final film together was particularly meaningful. “That film, for both of us, felt like a beautiful bookend,” she added. Their reunion on set for Our Souls at Night allowed them to reflect on the time that had passed, and the stories they had told together across the decades.
A Tribute to a Legend
The news of Redford’s death has not only devastated Jane but also his many peers, who have come forward to share their memories and express their condolences.
Meryl Streep, who worked with Redford on the critically acclaimed film Out of Africa, called his passing “one of the lions” of Hollywood, writing, “Rest in peace my lovely friend.” Streep’s tribute captures the sense of respect and admiration that many in the film industry have for Redford’s legacy.
Meanwhile, Marlee Matlin, who starred in the Oscar-winning film CODA, acknowledged the profound impact Redford had on the film industry, particularly through the Sundance Film Festival, which he founded in 1978. “Our film, CODA, came to the attention of everyone because of Sundance,” Matlin shared on X (formerly Twitter). “And Sundance happened because of Robert Redford. A genius has passed.”
Robert Redford’s Lasting Impact on Film and Activism
Robert Redford’s career was not just defined by his incredible acting, but also by his activism. Throughout his life, Redford was a passionate advocate for political and environmental causes, using his platform to speak out on issues ranging from climate change to social justice. Jane Fonda’s statement also reflects on the man behind the actor: “He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.” Redford’s commitment to activism, particularly through the Sundance Institute, transformed the landscape of independent cinema, providing a platform for new voices and filmmakers.
In addition to his film legacy, Redford’s influence extended far beyond the silver screen. His work as a founder of the Sundance Film Festival brought recognition to independent filmmakers, and it remains a vital institution that celebrates new and diverse voices in cinema. His passing marks the end of an era for independent film, with many in the industry reflecting on how Redford’s vision shaped their careers and the art of filmmaking itself.
Remembering a Hollywood Icon
As the world mourns the loss of Robert Redford, it is clear that his legacy will continue to live on through his films, his activism, and the generations of filmmakers and actors who were inspired by his work. From his unforgettable on-screen moments with Jane Fonda to his leadership in creating Sundance, Robert Redford leaves an indelible mark on both Hollywood and the broader cultural landscape.
What are your favorite memories of Robert Redford’s films? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
