A unique bond in Hollywood: Robert Redford and Paul Newman's enduring friendship proved genuine and lasting.
In the world of Hollywood, few friendships have shone as brightly as the one between Robert Redford and Paul Newman. Their bond, forged on the set of the iconic film 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' in 1969, spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on the industry.
Their camaraderie extended beyond the silver screen, as they shared a love for practical jokes and a deep-rooted commitment to their families. One such prank involved Redford sending a crashed Porsche as a birthday gift to Newman, complete with a big bow around it, which was left in Newman's driveway. Newman, it seems, had a terrible sense of humor and found Redford's bad jokes hilarious.
Their shared interests extended to philanthropy as well. While Redford focused on the environment and independent filmmaking, Newman founded the food company Newman's Own and donated its profits to charity. His most notable philanthropic endeavour was The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which he first established in 1988 to aid chronically ill children.
Redford often credited Newman with helping him become the multi-hyphenate star that he became. Newman, in turn, fought for Redford to play the Sundance Kid opposite him in 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.' This hybrid western-buddy comedy, which won four Academy Awards, including best original screenplay, marked the beginning of their fruitful collaboration.
Their friendship deepened over the years, with Redford stating that Newman showed him 'what the craft of acting meant to him, what his family meant to him, which was everything.' This sentiment was echoed by Newman, who, according to his wife Joanne Woodward, suggested that Redford should play the Sundance Kid in the film.
Sadly, both icons have now departed. Newman passed away in 2008 at the age of 83 due to lung cancer, while Redford died at the age of 89 on Tuesday, according to his publicist. Despite their passing, their friendship and the memories they created continue to inspire and captivate audiences.
In a video supporting The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, Redford described Newman as 'not so much a hero, but a guy who stood up for what he believed was right.' This sentiment encapsulates the essence of their friendship – a bond built on mutual respect, shared values, and a shared passion for making a difference. Their legacy lives on, not just in the films they made, but in the lives they touched and the world they sought to improve.
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