The passing of Robert Redford at 89 years old marked the end of an era, a moment that sent ripples through Hollywood and beyond. For decades, he stood as an enduring icon—an actor, filmmaker, and environmentalist whose presence graced some of the most iconic movies ever made. But beneath the dazzling lights of his public career, Redford, a seminal figure in the entertainment industry, cultivated a life rich with purpose, artistry, and, perhaps most notably, a profound sense of privacy.
While his films captivated millions, the real story for many lay in the quiet chapters of his personal journey, particularly his enduring relationship with artist Sibylle Szaggars. Their partnership, a testament to genuine connection over celebrity spectacle, offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of a man who, despite global fame, sought authenticity above all else. It’s a tale of shared passions, mutual respect, and a love that bloomed far from the glare of the red carpet.
Join us as we pull back the curtain on the unique bond Robert Redford shared with Sibylle Szaggars, exploring the intriguing details of how their paths converged, the artistic life they built together, and the surprising admission from Sibylle that played a pivotal role in shaping their decades-long romance, one that started on an ‘even playing field’ and blossomed into something truly extraordinary.
1. **Robert Redford: Hollywood Icon and Champion of Independent Film**Robert Redford’s legacy in Hollywood is nothing short of monumental. From his dashing good looks to his compelling performances, he was a superstar who defined an era, captivating audiences in classics like “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “The Sting,” “All the President’s Men,” and “Out of Africa.” His impact, however, extended far beyond acting; he was also a revered director, producer, and a passionate environmentalist, constantly working to keep the art of cinema alive and championing independent voices through his founding of the Sundance Institute.
Robert Redford’s legacy in Hollywood is nothing short of monumental. From his dashing good looks to his compelling performances, he was a superstar who defined an era, captivating audiences in classics like “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “The Sting,” “All the President’s Men,” and “Out of Africa.” His impact, however, extended far beyond acting; he was also a revered director, producer, and a passionate environmentalist, constantly working to keep the art of cinema alive and championing independent voices through his founding of the Sundance Institute.
Throughout his illustrious career, Redford became synonymous with a certain brand of thoughtful, impactful filmmaking. He wasn’t just a movie star; he was an artist deeply committed to his craft and to the broader cultural landscape. His ability to navigate both mainstream success and independent ventures cemented his status as a multifaceted talent, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers alike to pursue authenticity in their work.
Even as he announced his retirement from acting in 2018, his influence continued to resonate, leaving behind an impressive body of work and a blueprint for artistic integrity. His commitment to preserving and promoting film as an art form was unwavering, ensuring his place not just as an actor, but as a vital force in shaping the entertainment industry.
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2. **The Enduring Mystery of His Private Life**Despite spending more than six decades in the public eye, Robert Redford managed to cultivate an intensely private personal life, a rare feat for a man of his stature. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he largely kept his romantic relationships and family matters away from the constant scrutiny of the media, preferring to let his work speak for itself while maintaining a quiet existence in his beloved Utah mountains.
This deliberate choice for discretion was a defining characteristic of Redford’s approach to fame. He understood the allure of celebrity but consistently prioritized genuine human connections and a life unburdened by public spectacle. This aspect of his personality only deepened the public’s fascination, as he became known for guarding his inner world with a quiet strength that was both admirable and intriguing.
His preference for privacy meant that when details of his relationships did emerge, they offered precious glimpses into the man behind the legend. It showcased a desire for meaningful bonds, formed on personal devotion rather than public acclaim, making his love stories all the more compelling for their understated authenticity and depth.
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3. **Meeting Sibylle Szaggars: A Serendipitous Encounter**Robert Redford’s enduring relationship with Sibylle Szaggars began in the late 1990s, a serendipitous encounter that unfolded far from the glitz of Hollywood. Their paths crossed at Redford’s very own Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah, a place that held deep personal significance for him, named after his iconic ‘Sundance Kid’ role. Sibylle, who was visiting from her native Germany, was there for a skiing trip with friends, enjoying the pristine mountain landscape.
Their initial meeting wasn’t a dramatic, star-studded affair, but rather a simple coming together of two individuals. Redford and Szaggars met while she was staying at one of his hotels, a detail that underscores the unassuming nature of their introduction. It was an organic beginning, setting the tone for a relationship that would value genuine connection over the usual celebrity dynamics.
This unpretentious start proved to be foundational for their relationship. Instead of being introduced in a formal, industry setting, their encounter at Sundance allowed them to connect on a more personal level, away from the expectations and pressures that often accompany celebrity interactions. It was here, amidst the quiet beauty of Utah, that their unique love story truly began to unfold.
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4. **The Unassuming Artist: Sibylle’s Background**Sibylle Szaggars is a distinguished multimedia artist, whose impressive career spans over four decades, long before she became Robert Redford’s wife. Born in Hamburg, Germany, she cultivated a significant global reputation through her diverse artistic output, which has been showcased in locations across Europe, the US, Japan, Asia, and the Americas. Her work is a testament to her deep connection with nature and her commitment to environmental advocacy.
Szaggars’ artistic portfolio is expansive and deeply reflective of her passion for the natural world. She produces work in a variety of mediums, including oil paintings, abstract watercolors often influenced by natural weather patterns, travel photography, and even theatrical stage productions. Her art is not merely aesthetic; it serves as a powerful voice, often warning of environmental dangers while simultaneously highlighting the Earth’s incredible beauty.
Her contributions to art have even received official acknowledgment, such as her feature in the U.S. State Department’s Art in Embassies Program in 2016. Following a trip to Suriname’s rainforests and Indigenous communities, ten of her site-specific artworks were permanently placed at the U.S. Embassy in Paramaribo, beautifully symbolizing a fusion of art, environment, and diplomacy. Sibylle’s identity as an artist, rooted in nature and activism, was clearly defined long before her public association with Redford.
5. **The Allure of Ignorance: Why She Didn’t Know His Films**Perhaps the most charming and pivotal detail of Robert Redford and Sibylle Szaggars’ initial connection was her candid admission: she simply didn’t know much about his extensive film career. This wasn’t a calculated move, but a genuine lack of familiarity, as she wasn’t a “film person.” When the “All the President’s Men” star invited her and some friends for dinner, Sibylle, nervous about her ignorance, tried to quickly “swot up” on his movies.
She recalled, “I thought, ‘What if he wants to talk about his movies?’ I have no idea – that would be so embarrassing.” In her attempt to prepare, she rented several of his films, managing only to watch brief snippets from each before their dinner. Amusingly, Redford “did not talk about his films, so I was rescued and saved in a certain way,” as she shared with a laugh.
This refreshingly modest view of his career, her candidness about her lack of knowledge, and her charming attempt to educate herself, reportedly captivated Redford. For a man who had long lived under the weight of Hollywood fame, it was incredibly liberating to be seen simply as himself, rather than being defined by his colossal success. Her unfamiliarity proved to be an unexpected, yet powerful, catalyst for their burgeoning romance.
6. **A “Wonderful Beginning”: Connecting as Two Human Beings**Sibylle Szaggars’ lack of knowledge about Robert Redford’s illustrious film career was not a hindrance, but rather, an undeniable asset that laid the foundation for their deep connection. Redford himself acknowledged this profound attraction, explaining, “That’s one of the things that attracted me to her, she didn’t know much about me.” It was a rare and precious starting point for a celebrity, enabling them to bypass the usual trappings of fame.
Sibylle Szaggars’ lack of knowledge about Robert Redford’s illustrious film career was not a hindrance, but rather, an undeniable asset that laid the foundation for their deep connection. Redford himself acknowledged this profound attraction, explaining, “That’s one of the things that attracted me to her, she didn’t know much about me.” It was a rare and precious starting point for a celebrity, enabling them to bypass the usual trappings of fame.
He eloquently shared with People, and later reiterated at a YoungArts Foundation event, that “It was a wonderful beginning of a relationship, because it began as two human beings meeting each other and finding a connection as two human beings, rather than being colored by success or whatever.” This sentiment captures the essence of their bond, highlighting a desire for authenticity that often eludes those in the public eye. They started from a more “even playing field,” as Redford put it, free from any perceived “agenda.”
This emphasis on a genuine human connection allowed their relationship to flourish on equal footing, without the overshadowing weight of fame. It met Redford’s deeper desire to be seen as an artist beyond just his acting career, with Sibylle serving as both a partner and a fellow creative who genuinely understood his artistic essence. Their story became a testament to finding love where you’re seen for who you truly are, not for what you’ve achieved.
7. **Their Intimate Wedding in Hamburg: A Private Vow**After more than a decade of shared life and a profound connection that blossomed away from the Hollywood glare, Robert Redford and Sibylle Szaggars quietly tied the knot in 2009. Their wedding was a testament to their mutual preference for privacy, a low-key affair held in Hamburg, Germany—Sibylle’s native country. This choice of location was a deliberate statement, steering clear of the media frenzy that typically surrounds celebrity nuptials.
The intimate ceremony took place in the Landscape Room of the Louis C. Jacob Hotel, graced by the presence of only about 30 close friends and family members. Redford, fluent in German, exchanged vows that beautifully honored Szaggars’ heritage and reinforced the deep personal bond they had forged. The pastor who officiated, Frank Engelbrecht of St. Catherine’s Church, underscored the significance, noting, “The wedding was very important to both of them.”
The understated elegance of the event extended to a multi-course dinner enjoyed by guests after the church service. This private celebration perfectly mirrored their relationship, which had always prioritized authenticity and personal devotion over public spectacle. In a rare peek into his private world, Redford later shared with AARP The Magazine that Szaggars was a “very special person” who had provided him with a “whole new life,” sentiments that speak volumes about the depth of their union.
8. **A Union Forged in Environmental Activism: The Way of the Rain**Beyond their personal connection, Robert Redford and Sibylle Szaggars were united by a powerful, shared passion: a deep commitment to environmental activism. Sibylle, an artist whose work has always been deeply inspired by nature, channeled this passion into a monumental initiative. In 2015, she founded The Way of the Rain, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the Earth’s delicate ecosystems, with Redford proudly serving as its vice-president.
This unique organization was established with the specific purpose of “developing, producing, and performing” art that illuminates environmental concerns and galvanizes public support for our planet. The Way of the Rain wasn’t just a foundation; it was a vibrant, multimedia performance co-created by Szaggars in 2013 with Icelandic composer David Thor Jonsson. This powerful show blended music, film, dance, spoken word, and her signature silk rain paintings to deliver an urgent message about climate action.
Their combined efforts didn’t go unnoticed. The couple, as a team, were recipients of numerous accolades, including a significant recognition for their environmental leadership at the 2018 Ryerson Woods’ annual Smith Nature Symposium & Benefit. Redford himself articulated their shared honor, stating, “Sibylle and I were honored to receive this award at Brushwood Center, a place that provokes thought and provides inspiration to protect our natural world.” During the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, Sibylle expanded the project, collaborating with composer Tim Janis and Redford on a video series titled *The Way of the Rain – Reflections on Earth*, a “gift of hope to the world” screened at numerous global forums, transcending words, languages, cultures and politics.
9. **Rare Glimpses: Public Appearances and Shared Moments**Despite their profound dedication to privacy, Robert Redford and Sibylle Szaggars occasionally offered the public rare glimpses into their life together at notable cultural and artistic events. These appearances, though infrequent, were always marked by a quiet dignity and a harmonious presence, reinforcing their bond rather than their celebrity status. They graced prestigious occasions such as the Venice and Cannes Film Festivals, the Golden Globes, and the Princess Grace Awards, maintaining an elegant, low-profile charm.
Photographs from these special events paint a picture of complementary personalities. Szaggars often showcased a penchant for minimalist and bold-colored fashion choices, reflecting her artistic sensibility, while Redford maintained his timeless classic style. These moments captured them supporting each other’s work and causes, always with an air of genuine affection that transcended the red carpet’s superficiality. From posing hand-in-hand in Paris after Redford received the Legion d’Honneur in 2010 to accepting an award from Prince Albert II of Monaco in 2015, their shared experiences were always meaningful.
Away from the dazzling lights and cameras, the couple frequently retreated to Redford’s secluded mountain home in Sundance, Utah, a place of immense personal significance for him. It was there, amidst the tranquility of nature, that they cultivated a meaningful life centered on artistry, activism, and intimate companionship. Their life together exemplified a bond shaped by creative collaboration and a shared vision for environmental and social causes, a powerful narrative far removed from typical celebrity culture.
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10. **Redford’s First Love: Marriage to Lola Van Wagenen**Before his enduring partnership with Sibylle Szaggars, Robert Redford experienced a long and foundational first marriage to Lola Van Wagenen. They wed in 1958, notably before Redford achieved widespread fame, establishing a relationship that lasted 27 years until their divorce was finalized in 1985. Lola, herself an accomplished American film and TV producer renowned for “The American Experience,” was also a dedicated historian and activist, co-founding the environmental organization Consumer Action Now in 1970 and Clio Visualizing History in 1995.
Their union bore four children, although it was marked by profound tragedy. Their first son, Scott Anthony, tragically passed away at just two and a half months old in 1959 due to sudden infant death syndrome. They went on to have three more children: Shauna Jean, who became an artist; David James, a director and activist who sadly died in 2020 at the age of 58; and Amy Hart, now a director and actress. Lola also played a crucial role in Redford’s deep connection to Utah, as she hailed from the state, influencing his decision to build a family home there and establish the renowned Sundance Film Festival.
Their divorce, though not publicly declared at the time, was a mutual decision that Redford reflected on with a sense of maturity. He once stated, “It was mutual and it was right to move on. 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. I never wanted to be one of those divorced showbusiness casualties—so predictable! I wanted to prove that a marriage could last and prove the business wrong. But I couldn’t.” This sentiment underscores the respect and continued friendship that endured between them, highlighting their commitment to their children and shared history.
11. **Other Significant Romances: From Sonia Braga to Kathy O’Rear**Following his divorce from Lola Van Wagenen in 1985, and before his long-term commitment to Sibylle Szaggars, Robert Redford was romantically linked with a few other notable women. These relationships offered fleeting glimpses into his private world during a period of transition in his life. While often speculative and typically kept out of the intense public spotlight he guarded so fiercely, these connections were part of his journey toward finding his eventual lifelong partner.
One such alleged romance was with Brazilian actress Sonia Braga, which supposedly blossomed between 1987 and 1988. Their relationship was rumored to have begun on the set of *The Milagro Beanfield War*, a 1988 film that Redford himself directed. Although many speculated about their connection, concrete evidence of a deep romance remained elusive, suggesting that their on-screen chemistry might have fueled much of the public’s curiosity rather than a definitive off-screen commitment.
Later, in the early 1990s, Redford was reportedly involved with Swedish actress Lena Olin, his costar in the 1990 historical drama *Havana*. This relationship is documented to have lasted from 1990 to 1991. Subsequently, he was romantically linked with costume designer Kathy O’Rear from approximately 1990 to 1995. These brief yet significant relationships highlight a period of exploration in Redford’s romantic life, ultimately leading him to the profound connection he would forge with Sibylle Szaggars in the mid-1990s.
12. **The Enduring Legacy of His Partnerships and Artistic Life**Robert Redford’s life, marked by iconic cinematic achievements and a steadfast commitment to environmentalism, was profoundly shaped by his most significant partnerships. His enduring love stories, particularly with Lola Van Wagenen and Sibylle Szaggars, reveal a man who, despite global fame, prioritized genuine human connection and shared purpose over the transient glitz of Hollywood. Each relationship contributed uniquely to the rich tapestry of his existence, influencing his personal growth and his artistic and activist endeavors.
With Lola, he built a family and established deep roots in Utah, birthing the Sundance Institute—a testament to his dedication to independent film and art. Their marriage, though ending in divorce, left a legacy of mutual respect and a cherished family, demonstrating his desire to navigate personal transitions with grace. It proved that even Hollywood’s most dashing leading men could cherish a profound, enduring friendship with their former spouses.
Read more about: Robert Redford: An American Icon’s Enduring Legacy as Screen Idol, Visionary Director, and Tireless Activist
His union with Sibylle Szaggars, however, cemented a new chapter, one where his identity as an artist and environmentalist was not just acknowledged but deeply understood and amplified. Sibylle’s “unfamiliarity” with his fame created a unique space for him to be seen purely as himself, fostering a relationship built on equal footing and shared creative passions. Through ‘The Way of the Rain,’ they carved out a powerful joint legacy, proving that profound love and purpose can indeed flourish and make a tangible difference in the world, far beyond the confines of celebrity. Redford’s life stands as a beautiful testament to the power of authentic connection, artistic integrity, and a lifelong dedication to the planet.
