Hollywood is mourning the loss of a true legend. The news of Robert Redford’s passing has deeply saddened many, including his former co-star, Jennifer Lopez. The 56-year-old actress shared her heartfelt grief over the actor’s death, which was announced on Tuesday, September 16.
Lopez took to Instagram stories shortly after the announcement. She posted pictures from the set of their 2005 drama, “An Unfinished Life.” A simple white heart emoji accompanied the images, speaking volumes about her emotions. Hours later, Lopez shared a touching statement about her experience working alongside Redford, who was 89.
“It breaks my heart to hear of Robert Redford’s passing,” she wrote. “Working with him on ‘An Unfinished Life’ was a true gift. His kindness, wisdom, and talent touched everyone around him. Those qualities will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Becca Gardner, Jennifer Lopez, and Robert Redford in “An Unfinished Life,” 2005. Miramax/courtesy Everett Collection
Remembering “An Unfinished Life”
The 2005 drama “An Unfinished Life” brought Lopez and Redford together. Lasse Hallström directed the film, which also featured a star-studded cast including Morgan Freeman, Josh Lucas, Camryn Manheim, Damian Lewis, and Becca Gardner. Redford played Einer Gylikson, a Wyoming rancher. His character works to repair his relationship with his daughter-in-law, played by Lopez, after his son passes away. It was a powerful story about healing and family ties.
Redford often spoke about finding the deep emotions for his character. He needed to channel the anger and frustration Einer felt. During a September 2005 appearance on “The Early Show,” he explained his approach. “You have to go somewhere and connect with it,” he shared. “You can’t put those kinds of words on screen without some sort of reference. It would be impossible. It wouldn’t make sense. I know that ground by association, not necessarily by personal experience, but by association.”
He found playing the tough rancher role especially rewarding. “It was great,” Redford said. “I know those guys in the West, and they are not exclusive to that region. You can find them elsewhere in the country, bitter from some experience they couldn’t overcome. And the main issue was forgiveness.” He added that playing a “grumpy guy who had gone downhill” was very appealing. This was a change from his previous roles as “a healthy rancher, who took care of horses, was a good and solid person.”
Robert Redford Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images
A Legacy Beyond the Screen
Robert Redford’s publicist, Cindi Berger, confirmed his passing to The New York Times. He died peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his loved ones. His home in Utah, “the place he loved,” was where he spent his final moments.
Tributes have poured in from across Hollywood, showcasing Redford’s impact on fellow actors. Scarlett Johansson, who co-starred with him in “The Horse Whisperer,” shared her memories. Johansson, 40, spoke to People on Tuesday about his lasting influence. “Every day, before each scene, he would take the time to sit with me,” she said. “He would guide me through all the moments that led my character to that specific point in the story.”
She felt truly supported by him. “No matter how rushed the day was, I always felt like I had all the time in the world for our work,” Johansson explained. “Bob created an environment on set that was calm and valuable; a space where actors could make discoveries. He was patient, warm, and kind.”
Johansson also noted how Redford shaped her own career. “Bob taught me what acting could be,” she continued. “His generosity and patience inspired me to explore the possibilities of the craft.” This same artistic passion led Redford to create the Sundance Institute. It’s a place where filmmakers connect, learn, and discover new talent, a true testament to his love for the art of storytelling.