Jane Fonda Counters Barbra Streisand's Oscar Choice - Robert Redford's death at 89 ends a legendary Hollywood era
Hollywood legend Robert Redford passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. His death marked the end of an era for cinema, leaving behind a legacy of over seven decades in film. Colleagues and friends, including Jane Fonda and Barbra Streisand, have since honoured his contributions to the industry.
Redford's career spanned an impressive 78 films, though some sources cite figures ranging from over 50 to 78. Beyond acting, he directed nine movies, shaping independent cinema with works like Lions for Lambs (2007), a political drama exploring war and media, and The Company You Keep (2012), a thriller about former activists. These films reflected his commitment to thoughtful, non-mainstream storytelling.
His long-standing collaboration with Jane Fonda included four films made over nearly 50 years. Following his passing, Fonda shared that she believed she would have been the better choice to deliver his tribute. Instead, the honour went to Barbra Streisand, who paid homage at the Oscars. During her tribute, Streisand performed *The Way We Were*, a song closely tied to Redford's 1973 film of the same name. The emotional moment underscored his lasting impact on both audiences and fellow artists.
Redford's death leaves behind a vast body of work that influenced generations of filmmakers and actors. His roles as an actor, director, and advocate for independent cinema cemented his place in Hollywood history. The tributes from Fonda and Streisand highlight the deep respect he earned throughout his life.
