The entertainment industry lost a Hollywood legend this week in Robert Redford, aged 89. He died in his sleep in his home in Utah on Sept. 16, surrounded by his loved ones. The Academy Award-winning actor had a profound impact on film and television, notably starring in such projects as Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid, All the President's Men, and The Sting.
Redford's glittering career spanned decades. He tackled numerous genres, collecting plenty of illustrious awards along the way—not least an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and five Golden Globe Awards. Notably for geeks, he even made a foray into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Alexander Pierce, appearing in two movies: Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) and Captain America: Brave New World (2025).
The time Robert Redford shared a scene with George R.R. Martin in Dark Winds
Redford continued to act well into his late 80s. In fact, his last-ever on-screen performance came in an episode of AMC's Dark Winds, where he played a game of chess opposite A Song of Ice and Fire author George R.R. Martin in a tight and dimly-lit prison cell. It was only a small cameo lasting seconds, but the moment will remain beloved by viewers. Wiki of Thrones resurfaced the scene this week after the actor's passing.
Many fans also laughed at Redford's remark, "The world's waiting, make a move," which not-so-subtly references Martin's slowness in completing The Winds of Winter. All in good humor, of course!
The episode premiered in March 2025. Both Redford and Martin have served as executive producers on the show.
Following Redford's passing, fans have looked back on the scene. "What an incredible actor, director, producer, environmental activist, Native American rights advocate, jump started the independent film movement in the US. So glad to see him near the end with that twinkle in his eye and so funny! Rest in peace we will miss you," one fan wrote in the YouTube comments.
"Thank you for your service to the cinema world Mr. Robert Redford," another wrote.
Redford's immense movie and television catalog remains one of the most impressive in the entire industry. There's no doubt people will look back on his work for decades to come.
After its hugely successful third season earlier this year, AMC renewed Dark Winds for another outing. The neo-western currently holds a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes—a very rare feat for a series that's aired three seasons. You can stream all episodes on AMC+.