Death of Hollywood star Robert Redford
A Hollywood legend has passed away: American actor Robert Redford died on Tuesday at the age of 89. The screen idol starred in numerous blockbusters such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and Three Days of the Condor. He also did much to promote the independent film scene and was a committed environmental activist. Commentators explain why he will be missed.
Naturally classy
Redford embodied all the progressive qualities of his time as well as being a charismatic icon, Causeur recognises:
“With other actors, this smooth, squeaky-clean image could have been the undoing of a long career. Redford, on the other hand, undoubtedly had talent, vision, natural class, intelligent roles, partners who were his equals, but above all the 'Made in USA' trademark, which has not lost its shine over the years. You always go back to the original. This guy was already a star before he was fully aware of it. He must have realised that his face was driving his classmates crazy. Male or female – he took your breath away.”
A vocal defender of minorities
Tygodnik Powszechny remembers Robert Redford not just as a film actor but also as an individual who stood out for his political engagement:
“Over the years, Redford's Scottish-Irish and perhaps even slightly cowboyish blood made itself felt in his social and political activism. He was known for his commitment to environmental protection, especially in opposing the predatory practices of American oil companies, and he was also a vocal advocate of the rights of various minorities.”