The world recently bid farewell to a true icon, Robert Redford, who passed away peacefully at his beloved Sundance home in Utah at the age of 89. While fans across the globe celebrated his legendary roles in groundbreaking cinema, those closest to him cherished the man behind the legend: a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His life, much like his films, was a rich tapestry woven with threads of triumph, profound love, and heartbreaking loss.
Throughout his storied career, Robert Redford cultivated a rare blend of public charisma and fierce privacy. He masterfully kept his personal matters out of the relentless Hollywood glare, embracing long-term commitments and a life grounded away from the buzz. This dedication to privacy often meant that the depth of his personal connections remained largely out of the spotlight, allowing him to navigate his most intimate relationships with authenticity.
This article offers an exclusive glimpse into the heart of the man behind the superstar. We explore the significant relationships that shaped Robert Redford’s personal journey, from his first enduring marriage and subsequent romantic connections to the profound joys and sorrows he experienced as a father. It’s a narrative not just of a Hollywood legend, but of a man who found his anchor in family, love, and resilience.
1. Lola Van Wagenen (1958–1985)
Robert Redford’s first marriage to Lola Van Wagenen was a foundational chapter in his personal life, spanning 27 years and beginning long before his superstardom. The couple first crossed paths in 1957 in Los Angeles, a fateful meeting that would lead to their wedding in Las Vegas on August 9, 1958. At the time, Robert was an unknown, struggling visual artist, and Lola was just 17.
Their early days as a married couple were marked by humble beginnings, a testament to their love preceding any fame or fortune. Robert once recounted that they had a mere $300 in their bank account on their wedding day and even had to borrow a car to leave the ceremony. This period laid the groundwork for a relationship that would endure nearly three decades, witnessing Robert’s ascent in the film industry.
Despite their enduring connection, the pressures of Hollywood eventually took a toll. Robert candidly shared with The Telegraph in 2001 that his demanding career did affect their relationship, ultimately leading to their divorce in 1985. However, the separation was mutual and amicable, characterized by an enduring respect and affection that prioritized their children’s well-being. Redford noted, “We still have great love, great affection, great friendship. It is wonderful, and I think we probably deserve credit for it because the kids are great, they came through it OK.”
After their divorce, Lola Van Wagenen forged an impressive path for herself, evolving into an acclaimed historian and activist. She earned a Ph.D. in American History and continued her dedicated work, serving on the boards of various organizations and even dabbling in film production. Her ability to build a distinguished career and maintain a private, grounded life away from the spotlight, even marrying George Burrill in 2002, reflected a shared resilience with her former husband, demonstrating that their bond as co-parents remained strong.
2. Sonia Braga (1987–1988)
Following the conclusion of his long marriage to Lola Van Wagenen, Robert Redford’s romantic life saw new connections, including an alleged relationship with acclaimed Brazilian actress Sônia Braga. This purported romance reportedly unfolded between 1987 and 1988, capturing the interest of many who followed Redford’s career and personal life. The sparks were believed to have flown on the set of ‘The Milagro Beanfield War,’ a 1988 film where Redford served as director.
The dynamic on a film set, especially one directed by a charismatic figure like Redford and starring an equally compelling actress, can often lead to speculation about off-screen chemistry. While their on-screen collaboration was undeniable, the exact nature of their personal relationship remained a subject of conjecture. The context highlights that “while many have speculated about Sonia and Robert’s relationship, there is no clear evidence that they dated.”
This period offers a window into Redford’s preference for maintaining a boundary between his professional endeavors and his private life. Both Redford and Braga were known for their commitment to keeping their personal lives discreet, a trait that undoubtedly fueled the public’s curiosity while also protecting their intimacy. This commitment to privacy meant that any romantic involvement, if it existed, remained largely unconfirmed, underscoring Redford’s consistent approach to his relationships.
3. Lena Olin (1990–1991)
Another notable connection in Robert Redford’s romantic history was his relationship with Swedish actress Lena Olin, which spanned from 1990 to 1991. This romance also blossomed on a film set, as the two met during the production of the 1990 film ‘Havana.’ The allure of working closely on a creative project often fosters deep connections, and for Redford and Olin, this proved to be the case.
Their relationship reportedly began in 1990 and, according to IMDb, continued even after the cameras stopped rolling for ‘Havana,’ lasting until 1991. This brief but significant period in Redford’s life showcased his continued capacity for connection and attraction to talented women within his professional sphere. It further illustrated how his work often brought him into contact with individuals who shared his creative passion and intellectual curiosity.
While details of their time together remain private, this relationship stands as another thread in the tapestry of Redford’s journey through love after his first marriage. It underscores a phase where he explored new romantic avenues, each adding a unique color to his personal narrative. The connection with Olin, though relatively short-lived, played its part in the ongoing evolution of Robert Redford’s romantic experiences.
4. Sibylle Szaggars (2009–present)
After navigating the complexities of post-divorce life and several other relationships, Robert Redford found a profound and enduring connection with German-born multimedia environmental artist Sibylle Szaggars. Their paths first crossed in 1996 at his cherished Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah, a meeting that, by Redford’s own admission, was wonderfully unburdened by his celebrity. Sibylle was reportedly unfamiliar with his extensive filmography at the time, which Redford cherished, noting that it allowed them to connect as “two human beings meeting each other and finding a connection… rather than being colored by success.” This authentic beginning laid the foundation for a deep and private romance that would last over two decades.
Their relationship blossomed quietly for more than a decade before Redford publicly confirmed their engagement in a 2008 interview with the German magazine Bunte, stating simply, “She is my fiancée, and that says everything, doesn’t it?” The following year, on July 11, 2009, the couple exchanged vows in a very intimate ceremony at the Louis C. Jacob Hotel in Sibylle’s hometown of Hamburg, Germany. The gathering was small, with only about 30 close family members and friends in attendance, reflecting their shared desire for privacy and genuine connection. This wedding marked Redford’s second marriage and signaled a new, vibrant chapter in his personal life.
Sibylle Szaggars brought not only love but also a shared passion for environmentalism into Redford’s life. An internationally recognized artist, her work spans oil paintings, photography, and performance art, often focusing on themes of nature and conservation. In 2015, she founded The Way of the Rain, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising public awareness about climate change through artistic and educational performances, with Redford serving as its vice president. Together, they became a formidable force in environmental advocacy, attending events like the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation awards in 2021, where they were recognized for their profound commitment to preserving our planet. Their bond was one of mutual respect and a shared purpose, with Redford affectionately describing her as a “very special person” and a “whole new life” for him.
Sibylle wholeheartedly embraced her role as a stepmother to Robert’s children from his first marriage, becoming an integral part of the Redford family tapestry. While they did not have children of their own, her presence brought immense stability and warmth to his life. She was by his side through the later years of his life, sharing his beloved Sundance residence, and was undoubtedly a source of comfort and strength until his passing. Their partnership exemplified a love that deepened with time, rooted in shared values and a quiet appreciation for one another, away from the constant glare of Hollywood.
5. David James “Jamie” Redford (Born 1962)
The Redford family experienced both creative blossoming and profound sadness through the life of Robert and Lola Van Wagenen’s third child, David James, affectionately known as Jamie, born in May 1962. Jamie grew up to carve his own unique path, following in his father’s footsteps not as an actor, but as a passionate and accomplished filmmaker, writer, and activist. He embraced the art of storytelling, often using his voice to shed light on important social and environmental issues, demonstrating a strong independent spirit that resonated deeply with his father’s own values.
Jamie’s career included directing several impactful documentaries, such as “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia” and “Watershed: Exploring a New Water Ethic for the West.” Through his work, he showcased a deep commitment to philanthropy and advocating for causes close to his heart. He was candid about the unique experience of having a famous father, once telling HollywoodChicago.com in 2016, “There can be no argument that I’m in a unique situation… But I think the name, for every time it has proved to be helpful, it has also proved to be a challenge.” His ability to navigate this duality while forging his own distinct identity was a testament to his character.
However, Jamie’s life was also marked by significant health challenges. He was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a chronic liver disease, which necessitated two life-saving liver transplants in the 1990s. This harrowing experience transformed him into a powerful advocate for organ donation, a cause he championed tirelessly, using his personal story to inspire and educate others. His resilience in the face of such severe illness was a profound example of courage for his family and for the many lives he touched through his advocacy.
Tragically, the family faced immense sorrow once more when Jamie passed away on October 16, 2020, at the age of 58, following a battle with bile-duct cancer. His death was a devastating blow, described by Robert’s publicist as leaving “immeasurable grief” for the family, reopening old wounds from the loss of his infant brother Scott decades earlier. Jamie was survived by his beloved wife, Kyle, and their two children, Dylan and Lena. His legacy endures through his films, his advocacy, and the deep love he shared with his family, a testament to a life lived with purpose and unwavering spirit.
6. Amy Hart Redford (Born 1970)
Robert and Lola Van Wagenen’s fourth and youngest child, Amy Hart Redford, born in October 1970, continued the family’s creative lineage by forging her own successful career in the performing arts. Rather than solely embracing the shadow of her iconic father, Amy chose to pursue her passions as an actress and director, studying theater at San Francisco State University and dedicating herself to developing her craft. Her decision reflected a deep-seated connection to storytelling, something she attributed, in part, to her upbringing.
Amy candidly shared her experiences growing up with a legendary father, revealing that his career undeniably helped “draw” her to the industry. She once told IndieWire in 2008, “As a kid, I witnessed the process of my dad making films and the extraordinary cast of characters that came together to make it happen.” This early exposure to the creative process ignited her own artistic ambitions, allowing her to appreciate the unique, nomadic, and collaborative life that filmmaking offered. She has since built a diverse career, appearing in films, television, and on stage, as well as directing her own projects, showcasing her versatile talent and independent vision.
Despite the complexities of growing up as the daughter of a superstar, Amy maintained a remarkably down-to-earth perspective on her relationship with her father. In a chat with The New York Times, she affectionately admitted, “He still drives me nuts, he’s still my dad, but I have to say, in light of what his universe was, he had his eye on the ball in terms of having kids, and part of that was being raised in Manhattan.” This refreshing honesty highlighted the deeply personal, often normal, bond they shared, characterized by both affection and the relatable frustrations common to any parent-child dynamic, even within the extraordinary world of Hollywood.
Today, Amy continues to be a vibrant presence in the arts, carrying forward the Redford name with grace and talent. She is a devoted mother, raising her three children—daughter Eden and twin daughters—with her ex-husband Matt August. Her dedication to her family, coupled with her artistic endeavors, ensures that the Redford legacy of creativity and passion for storytelling will continue to thrive through her generation and beyond. She stands as a testament to the idea that personal fulfillment can be found both on stage and within the quiet embrace of family life, mirroring the balance her father so often sought.
7. The Redford Grandchildren*
While Robert Redford’s storied career captivated millions, his greatest joy, as he often stated, lay not in accolades but in his family, especially his children and their children. He was immensely proud to be a grandfather, and his seven grandchildren represent the vibrant continuation of the Redford family’s enduring legacy. These younger generations carry forward the blend of artistic talent, independent spirit, and a commitment to meaningful pursuits that defined their famous patriarch.
Among his grandchildren are Shauna Redford’s two children, Mica and Conor Schlosser. Growing up with an artist mother and a family deeply rooted in creative expression and activism, Mica and Conor represent the next wave of the Redford lineage, embodying the values of privacy and purposeful living that their grandfather cherished. Their journeys, while largely kept out of the public eye, contribute to the rich tapestry of the family’s ongoing narrative, a quiet continuation of a powerful heritage.
Tragically, Jamie Redford’s children, Dylan and Lena Redford, faced the profound loss of their father in 2020. Despite this heartbreak, they embody the resilience and spirit of the Redford family. Dylan, born in 1991, and Lena, born in 1995, continue to honor their father’s memory and their grandfather’s legacy, navigating their own paths in life. Their presence ensures that the lessons of endurance and the importance of family connections remain strong, even in the face of immense sorrow.
Amy Redford’s three children, daughter Eden and her twin daughters, further enrich the Redford family tree. Born in 2008 and 2010 respectively, these youngest members of the family are growing up with a rich artistic heritage and a strong sense of purpose instilled by their mother and grandfather. Robert Redford’s vision for the Sundance Institute included involving his children and grandchildren in its future, emphasizing his desire for them to “keep it going.” This hope underscores the profound importance he placed on family, not just as a personal joy, but as the enduring custodians of his values and the institutions he built. His grandchildren are not merely descendants; they are the living embodiment of his proudest achievement, ensuring his influence continues to resonate for generations to come.
8. Redford’s Enduring Legacy as a Family Man
Throughout his extraordinary life, marked by unparalleled success in Hollywood and a deep commitment to environmental causes, Robert Redford consistently articulated that his greatest achievement was not on screen, but within the private sphere of his family. He often referred to his children as “the best thing in my life,” a profound statement from a man who had garnered countless accolades and global adoration. This heartfelt sentiment underscored his true priorities, revealing the man behind the legendary persona—a devoted patriarch who found his deepest fulfillment in the bonds of love and kinship.
Redford was unflinchingly honest about the challenges and heartbreaks that came with fatherhood. He once shared with People magazine, “The hardest thing in the world is when your children have problems,” acknowledging the “many hits on our family that no one knows about.” This vulnerability highlighted the immense emotional toll of losses like that of his infant son Scott and, later, his son Jamie. Despite the public fascination with his life, Redford fiercely protected his family’s privacy, allowing them the space to navigate joy and sorrow away from the relentless Hollywood glare. He wanted them to come through life’s trials “OK,” a testament to his protective love.
His dedication to maintaining a life grounded away from the Hollywood buzz was a conscious choice, one that allowed him to cultivate authentic, long-term commitments. This was evident in his enduring respect and affection for his first wife, Lola, even after their divorce, and in the deep, quiet partnership he forged with Sibylle Szaggars. For Redford, family was not just a personal refuge; it was the anchor that kept him grounded, a constant source of inspiration and resilience in a world often consumed by superficiality. His efforts to involve his children—Shauna, Amy, and Jamie—and even his grandchildren in the future of the Sundance Institute further illustrate his vision for a lasting family legacy intertwined with his passions.
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Robert Redford’s life serves as a powerful narrative not just of an iconic actor and filmmaker, but of a man who cherished his roles as husband, father, and grandfather above all else. His commitment to love, resilience in the face of loss, and unwavering devotion to his family form the enduring legacy that truly defines him. As the world remembers his cinematic brilliance and environmental activism, those closest to him will forever cherish the man who, despite his towering public presence, always found his truest self within the loving embrace of his family, ensuring his impact resonates for generations to come.
