Robert Redford, known to many as the legendary actor and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, was also a loving family man, whose life was a blend of both achievements and heartaches.
The Oscar-winning legend left this world on September 16 at the age of 89, having enriched it with his impressive film career and meaningful charitable work. But beyond his public persona, he was a devoted father to four children: Scott, Shauna, James, and Amy, whom he had with his first wife, Lola Van Wagenen.
Redford was born Charles Robert Redford Jr. in Santa Monica, California, on August 18, 1936. Over the years, his captivating charm and standout film roles made him a household name, and his commitment to independent cinema through the Sundance Institute helped shape the future of Hollywood.
A Family First
Amidst the fame, Redford’s heart was always with his family. He married Lola Van Wagenen in 1958, and they embarked on a life together that included the joy of welcoming four children.
However, tragedy would soon strike when their firstborn, Scott, tragically passed away at just seven weeks old due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Redford, deeply affected, found refuge in his work, quietly shouldering his grief.
Reflecting on the difficult period, he shared, “How does that show up in my work? I don’t know. I was only 21; my wife was 20. We were just starting our lives; I was just starting my career in New York.” Despite the trauma, the couple found a way to continue forward.
Shauna Redford
In November 1960, they welcomed their daughter, Shauna, who pursued a different path from her father, becoming a successful painter. She married Eric Schlosser in 1985, and their family includes two children, Conor and Mica.
Redford expressed pride in his children’s involvement in the Sundance Institute, saying, “I’ve been spending a lot of time bringing my children — Shauna, Amy, and Jamie — into the picture, and now they’re there and ready to run the show.”
Lola shared how the heart of the Redford family home was the kitchen, a place of warmth and creativity, often bustling with the children’s culinary adventures, especially when Redford was away.
James Redford
Their son James, also known as Jamie, went on to become a celebrated filmmaker, known for his impactful documentaries like “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia.” Married to Kyle, Jamie was father to Dylan and Lena, who have both forged their own creative paths.
Jamie once described the complexities of growing up with a famous father to HollywoodChicago.com, stating, “There can be no argument that I’m in a unique situation, but my task is just like anyone else, to prove myself through my work.”
Amy Redford
Amy, like her father, immersed herself in the entertainment industry, working as an actress, producer, and director. She lives with her partner, theater director Matt August, with whom she shares a daughter, Eden. Amy credits her father for inspiring her creative journey.
She told IndieWire, “I found myself drawn to the nomadic and creative life. What led me to actually having the opportunity to do it was a mix of luck, timing, and stubbornness.”
Amy has worked on many significant projects over the years and has spoken passionately about supporting women’s voices in film, highlighting the cultural importance of inclusive storytelling.
Her personal life, too, has seen its changes. She was married to Scottish photographer Mark Mann and later to Matt August, with whom she has a daughter.
The Loss of James
In 2020, the Redford family faced another tragedy with the passing of James. He bravely battled a rare liver disease that led to two transplants and eventually succumbed to liver cancer. This immense loss was felt deeply, and those who knew him honored his memory by sharing stories of his life and passions.
The grief of losing a child is something that words cannot fully capture. “Jamie was a loving son, husband, and father. His legacy lives on through his children, art, filmmaking, and devoted passion,” said a family representative.
A Life Well-Lived
Though Redford and Van Wagenen quietly parted ways, they both continued to play pivotal roles in their children’s lives. Redford found love again with Sibylle Szaggars, marrying her in 2009.
Redford, a symbol of enduring talent and human spirit, passed away peacefully in Sundance, Utah, on September 16, 2025, leaving behind a life full of triumphs in art and family, forever cherished by all who were touched by his story.
