10 fun and interesting Robert Redford facts

1. Iconic Hollywood Actor

On August 18, 1936, the world was blessed with the birth of Charles Robert Redford Jr, better known as Robert Redford, in Santa Monica, California. Redford has since become an iconic figure in the entertainment industry, having starred in numerous films, directed several movies, and founded the Sundance Film Festival. He has been nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning one for Best Director for his film, 'Ordinary People'. Redford has also been honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States.

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2. Robert Redford's Father Was an Accurate Accountant

Robert Redford's father, Charles Robert Redford, was an accountant for the renowned Standard Oil Company. He worked for the company for many years, and was highly respected for his expertise in the field. His work was so valued that he was even invited to speak at conferences and seminars on the subject of accounting. Charles Redford was a dedicated and hardworking man, and his son Robert Redford has followed in his footsteps, becoming a successful actor, director, and producer.

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3. Robert Redford Pursues a Passion for Art and Travels to Europe

Robert Redford had a passion for art from a young age, and this passion led him to pursue a formal education in the field. He attended the Pratt Institute of Art, and after graduating, he decided to take his passion to the next level by travelling to Europe to live as a professional painter. During his time abroad, Redford was able to hone his skills and explore the world of art in a way that he never could have done in the United States.

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4. Legendary Actor

After graduating from high school, Robert Redford decided to pursue a career in acting and enrolled at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. He studied there for two years, honing his craft and learning the fundamentals of the art of acting. During his time at the Academy, Redford developed a passion for the craft and a strong desire to make it his life's work. His hard work and dedication paid off, and he eventually became one of the most successful and respected actors of all time.

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5. A Career of Historical Success

Throughout his illustrious career, Robert Redford has starred in a plethora of highly successful movies and television shows. He is particularly renowned for his roles in period pieces, which often explore and celebrate some aspect of history. His performances in these roles have been widely praised, and have earned him numerous awards and accolades.

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6. Iconic Western Actor

In 1969, Robert Redford achieved his breakthrough role when he starred alongside Paul Newman in the William Goldman movie "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid". This iconic western film, which was nominated for seven Academy Awards, propelled Redford to stardom and cemented his place in Hollywood history. Redford's portrayal of the Sundance Kid, a charming and daring outlaw, earned him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor.

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7. Robert Redford wins Academy Award for Best Director

Robert Redford won the Academy Award for Best Director in 1981 for his work on the movie "Ordinary People". This was a major milestone in his career, as it was the first time a director had won the award for a debut feature film. Redford's win was widely celebrated, and the movie went on to win four other Oscars, including Best Picture. Redford's success with "Ordinary People" cemented his status as one of the most influential directors of his generation.

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8. Robert Redford Receives French Legion d'Honneur

In 2002, Robert Redford was honored with the Academy Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his immense contribution to the film industry. This was followed by an even greater honor in 2010, when he was knighted in the French Legion d'Honneur, the highest order of merit in France. This prestigious award is a testament to Redford's lasting legacy in the world of cinema.

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9. All-Rounder Extraordinaire

Robert Redford is a renowned actor, director, producer, and environmentalist, but he is also credited with founding the Sundance Film Festival in 1978. The festival, which is held annually in Park City, Utah, has become one of the most important and influential film festivals in the world, showcasing independent films from around the globe. Redford's vision for the festival was to create a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work and to provide a space for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals. The festival has since become a major event in the film industry, and Redford's legacy lives on in the Sundance Film Festival.

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10. Robert Redford's love of fishing began early in his career

Robert Redford's love of fishing began early in his career when he accepted a fishing rod instead of the money he was promised for his first professional acting experience on a television game show. This was a defining moment for Redford, as it marked the beginning of his long and successful career in the entertainment industry. He has since gone on to become an Academy Award-winning actor, director, and producer, but his love of fishing has remained a constant throughout his life.