Legendary actor, director, and champion of independent film, Robert Redford, has passed away at the age of 89. His publicist confirmed the news, stating that the Oscar-winning icon died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Utah on Tuesday.

Redford’s career spanned over six decades, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most enduring and charismatic stars. He was a generational talent known for his rugged good looks and captivating performances in films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), The Sting (1973), and All the President’s Men (1976). His work earned him critical acclaim and a place in cinematic history.

Beyond the screen, Redford’s legacy is defined by his profound influence on the film industry. He founded the Sundance Institute, which led to the creation of the internationally renowned Sundance Film Festival. This festival has been a vital platform for independent filmmakers for decades, launching the careers of countless artists and shaping the landscape of modern cinema.

A committed environmentalist and activist, Redford used his global platform to advocate for social and environmental causes. He was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 for his contributions to the arts and his tireless work as an advocate for the environment.

The passing of Robert Redford marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His contributions as an actor, director, and visionary will be remembered for generations to come.