Hollywood icon Robert Redford has peacefully passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable film legacy built over decades as both an actor and director. His directorial work in the 1980 film Ordinary People earned him an Oscar, and he later received a lifetime achievement Oscar in 2002 for his significant contributions to cinema.
Redford is widely recognized for his roles in classic movies like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, All the President’s Men, The Way We Were, and Out of Africa. Interestingly, many may not realize that Redford is also the face behind a popular meme known as the “Jeremiah Johnson Nod of Approval,” often wrongly attributed to actor Zach Galifianakis.
Following the news of Redford’s passing, the account Know Your Meme highlighted his cultural impact, noting how his influence extended from the big screen to online platforms. Many were surprised to discover that the meme image actually depicted Robert Redford and not Zach Galifianakis, sparking reactions across social media.
Redford’s publicist confirmed his passing on September 16, 2025, expressing that he passed away at his beloved home in Sundance, Utah, surrounded by loved ones. Apart from his acting and directing career, Redford’s legacy includes founding the Sundance Institute, a non-profit organization supporting independent filmmakers and hosting the renowned Sundance Festival.
The Sundance Institute expressed deep sadness over Redford’s loss, emphasizing his vision and impact on independent voices in cinema. They praised his contributions to culture and pledged to honor his legacy by continuing to uphold his values and vision for the institute.