Robert Redford, the legendary actor, Oscar-winning director, and Sundance Film Festival founder, was not only a Hollywood icon but also a devoted family man whose life saw joy mingled with profound personal tragedy.
Redford and his first wife, Lola Van Wagenen, had four children: Scott, Shauna, James (also known as Jamie), and Amy. Tragically, two of his sons died before him—Scott as an infant and James in his late 50s.
Scott, born in 1959, died of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) after just seven weeks. Redford rarely spoke publicly about this loss, but in a 2017 interview, he described it as traumatic, especially being so young and unprepared for such pain. Seeking therapy didn’t provide much solace, but he acknowledged the lingering impact grief had on his life and work.
James, a filmmaker and activist, passed away in 2020 at age 58 after battling rare liver disease and later liver cancer. Survived by his wife Kyle and their two children, James carried forward Redford’s artistic legacy through his impactful films on social issues. The family shared deep heartbreak at his passing, and Redford mourned privately with them.
Redford’s daughters, Shauna and Amy, built successful lives—Shauna as a painter and Amy as an actress, producer, and director, both involved in sustaining the Sundance Institute’s legacy alongside their father. Amy has spoken openly about her inspirations and the challenges of balancing career and motherhood.
After separating from Lola, Redford married his longtime companion Sibylle Szaggars in 2009 and lived with her in Sundance, Utah, where he died peacefully in his sleep on September 16, 2025.
Redford’s reflections on loss reveal a loving father who faced unimaginable grief with resilience. His family life was as impactful as his career, and his legacy endures through his children and humanitarian efforts.
