Governor Polis Releases Statement on Passing of American Icon and Actor Robert Redford

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

DENVER - Today, Governor Polis joins fans from across the world to mourn the death of American actor Robert Redford. 

“Robert Redford was always ahead of his time, pushing film and arts forward, revolutionizing Hollywood, advocating for our planet, and bringing joy to many. Redford was passionately committed to film, and his career in front of the camera and behind it having left a mark on all of us. He knew that film has the power to inspire, and he not only achieved great fame as an actor, but used that power for good, supporting other artists and filmmakers, including founding the Sundance Film Festival which Colorado is proud to welcome in 2027. Robert had deep ties to Colorado, including his attendance at CU Boulder and job at The Sink. He will be missed, but his contributions will be felt for years to come and his legacy will live on,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

In March, the Sundance Institute announced Boulder, Colorado as the new host of the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027. The festival will bring together powerful storytellers, filmmakers, and actors to Colorado, while boosting Colorado’s economy. 

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