Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
Today I write with a heavy heart, one that feels shattered beyond repair. One of the most talented and dearest friends I have ever known has just passed away — my beloved friend, Robert Redford. To say that knowing Robert was a blessing would be an understatement; it was one of the great privileges of my life.
Robert was far more than the legendary actor, director, and producer the world admired. He was a man of extraordinary integrity, kindness, and quiet strength. He had this rare ability to make everyone around him feel seen and heard, no matter who they were or where they came from. Our friendship spanned decades, and through all those years, I saw not just the artist that so many celebrated, but the man behind the camera — thoughtful, compassionate, and endlessly curious about life.
I remember countless evenings spent in deep conversation with him, sometimes about art and storytelling, other times about family, dreams, and faith. Robert had this gentle way of turning even the simplest moment into something profound. His laughter was infectious, his advice was wise, and his friendship was unwavering.
Losing him feels like losing a piece of my own history. The world has lost a cinematic giant, but I have lost a brother in spirit. I take comfort in imagining him still doing what he loved most — directing, producing, and acting in the heavenly movies above, where the light is always golden and the stories never end.
Rest in peace, my dear friend. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone you touched and in the art you left behind. You are loved, Robert. You always will be.
With love and gratitude,
Merrill