Austin, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Robert Redford, the Oscar-winning actor and director, has passed away at 89 in Utah. Known for his environmental activism, he maintained strong ties to Austin, Texas, where he contributed to significant local initiatives like the Save Our Springs Ordinance. Redford’s legacy includes not only his acclaimed films but also his commitment to environmental causes, shaping discussions and inspiring future generations in the creative and ecological fields.
Austin Remembers Robert Redford: A Legacy Tied to Texas and Environmental Activism
Robert Redford, the Oscar-winning actor and director, has died in Utah at the age of 89. His death occurred early Tuesday morning, as confirmed by his publicist, who stated that he died in his sleep.
Although Redford grew up in Southern California, he maintained deep family ties to Central Texas, specifically Austin and San Marcos. During summer visits to his mother’s family, he learned to swim at Barton Springs, a natural pool in Austin. In a interview from the 1990s, Redford emphasized how these early experiences at Barton Springs significantly shaped his affinity for nature.
Throughout his life, Redford was heavily involved in environmental activism. He notably supported the Save Our Springs Alliance, which focused on limiting harmful development in Austin. His advocacy contributed to the passage of the Save Our Springs Ordinance, a ballot initiative that was approved by Austin voters in 1992.
Bill Bunch, the Executive Director of Save Our Springs Alliance, praised Redford for his personal approach to environmental issues. Additionally, Redford produced the 2007 documentary “The Unforeseen,” which chronicled the environmental battles over Barton Springs. He actively promoted this documentary in Austin, further demonstrating his commitment to the local environment.
Laura Dunn, the director of “The Unforeseen,” remembered Redford as kind, generous, and thoughtful. His commitment to including diverse viewpoints in environmental discussions was a hallmark of his advocacy. Throughout his life, Redford dedicated himself to environmental causes and nurturing young creatives, reflecting his broader influence beyond acting and directing.
Redford’s family history in Texas dates back to the 1850s in Hays County. He often spoke about his childhood experiences with nature, which he identified as foundational to his later environmental advocacy. He is also known for notable films such as “All the President’s Men,” “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “The Sting,” and “The Natural.” In addition to starring in these classics, he directed nine feature films and founded the Sundance Film Festival and Sundance Institute, which support young filmmakers.
In addition to his extensive work in film, Redford narrated the documentary “Fighting Goliath: The Texas Coal Wars,” showcasing Texans’ opposition to coal-powered plants. This project highlighted his ongoing commitment to environmental issues that resonate deeply with Texans. Redford frequently visited Texas for movie premieres and speaking engagements, illustrating his continued connection to the state throughout his career.
Key Contributions
- Passed the Save Our Springs Ordinance in 1992.
- Produced the documentary “The Unforeseen.”
- Founded the Sundance Film Festival and Sundance Institute.
- Narrated “Fighting Goliath: The Texas Coal Wars.”
Conclusion
Robert Redford’s legacy is marked by his remarkable contributions to the film industry and his unwavering commitment to environmental activism, connecting deeply with his roots in Texas.
FAQ
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Chart of Robert Redford’s Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Actor and Director |
| Age at Death | 89 |
| Death Location | Utah |
| Environmental Involvement | Save Our Springs Alliance, produced “The Unforeseen” |
| Notable Films | “All the President’s Men,” “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “The Sting,” “The Natural” |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KXAN
- Wikipedia: Robert Redford
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google Search: Robert Redford
- San Antonio Express-News
- Google Scholar: Robert Redford
- KVUE
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robert Redford
- CBS Austin
- Google News: Robert Redford
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
