7 Surprising Facts About Robert Redford You Probably Didn’t Know

1. He Almost Didn’t Become an Actor

Before Hollywood fame, Redford dreamed of being a painter. He studied art in both Colorado and Paris, and acting only came later as a twist of fate.

2. He Was Once Expelled from College

While attending the University of Colorado, Redford was expelled due to excessive drinking. That setback actually pushed him to travel and pursue art more seriously.

3. Sundance Wasn’t Just a Role — It Became a Movement

After starring in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, he bought land in Utah and named it “Sundance.” It later grew into the iconic Sundance Film Festival, now one of the most influential platforms for independent filmmakers worldwide.

4. He Secretly Battled Health Issues

Few fans know that Redford underwent a secret heart surgery in 2014. He kept it private, reflecting his lifelong preference for privacy despite global fame.

5. He Turned Down Some Iconic Roles

Believe it or not, Redford declined major roles in films like The Graduate. Imagine how different Hollywood history would be if he had said yes.

6. He’s a Political Activist at Heart

Beyond movies, Redford has always been deeply political — speaking out on environmental issues, Native American rights, and government accountability long before celebrity activism was mainstream.

7. He Officially Retired from Acting in 2018

Redford announced The Old Man & the Gun would be his final acting role. While fans were heartbroken, he emphasized wanting to spend his later years focusing on directing, art, and family.

Final Thought

From expulsion in college to shaping independent cinema forever, Robert Redford’s life proves he’s not just a movie star — he’s a cultural force. Chances are, you didn’t know at least a few of these surprising facts about him.