Barbra Streisand Offers Heartfelt Homage to Robert Redford: ‘Truly one of the Finest Actors Ever’
Barbra Streisand publicly praised her longtime friend and co-star, hailing him as “truly a master of his craft.”
An Emotional Tribute
Streisand posted a moving reflection after the loss of Redford in the classic film their famous collaboration. He died at the age of 89 at his cherished Sundance retreat.
On Instagram, the performer reflected warmly regarding their shared experiences while making the 1973 hit.
“Each day during filming of that beloved movie felt thrilling, powerful and pure joy,” she expressed. “We came from different worlds: he loved equestrian life; I was allergic to them! Still, we kept trying to find out more about each other, much like the figures on screen. He had magnetic charm, intelligent, deeply passionate, endlessly fascinating—and a true master of acting. When we last met, when he came to lunch, we talked about creativity and agreed to share our early artwork. He was one of a kind and I’m so grateful to have experienced the opportunity to work with him.”
An Enduring Impact
The acclaimed love story their classic collaboration was a critical and commercial hit with Streisand’s theme song rising to become a popular success and being nominated for an Oscar nomination.
Streisand’s tribute adds to numerous from Hollywood and beyond following his passing. Meryl Streep, who starred with him in Out of Africa and Lions for Lambs, expressed, “One of the lions has passed. Farewell dear friend.”
Jane Fonda, who starred with him in multiple films such as their famous comedy, shared her thoughts: “It hit me hard upon learning that Bob was gone. It’s deeply emotional. He meant a lot to me and he was a wonderful human being through and through. He stood for a vision of the country that must be preserved.”
An Advocate for Art
A well-known leader released a photograph featuring them together, adding the caption: “He fought for progressive values including nature preservation and access to the arts while opening doors for new generations of activists and filmmakers. A monumental figure.”
Another accomplished actress, known for her role in The Horse Whisperer, a drama directed by and starring Redford, recalled their collaboration. “He was patient and warm and kind,” she noted. “He showed me the possibilities of the craft, and it was from his generosity and understanding that I found motivation to pursue the possibilities of the craft. That identical spirit and love of the art led to the founding of the renowned festival, an environment in which film-makers learn from one another, fuel creativity, and recognize mutual giftedness. Bob, thank you for trusting my talent and for your grace and guidance.”
Others also noted by a renowned director as one of the “innovative force”.
A Profound Impact
Redford was known for his numerous roles as an actor, including All The President’s Men, and was instrumental within the independent film community, and widely regarded as an innovator of US independent cinema.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of the visionary behind our institution,” the organization shared. “His dream of an institution and a stage for original artists launched a movement which, after forty years, has motivated countless individuals of filmmakers and reshaped the art of movie-making globally.”