NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The New Mexico film industry is mourning the loss of film icon Robert Redford, who died at 89 years old. He had deep ties to the Land of Enchantment, both on and off screen, with those in the film industry remembering the actor/director’s legacy.
New Mexico governor remembers Robert Redford, highlights impact on state’s film industry
An Oscar-winning director, actor, producer, and environmental activist, Robert Redford is now being remembered for his legacy not only in filmmaking but also for his deep ties to New Mexico. Those ties go back to the late 1980s when he filmed “The Milagro Beanfield War,” which was shot in Truchas. He was an advocate for elevating the lesser-known voices in cinema.
Redford also sparked the annual Albuquerque Film & Music Experience dedicated to showing independent creators on screen and stage. His impact was felt by many statewide. “He and his wife were both avid in the local Santa Fe art scene. He was a perfect gentleman. He had a really charming way about him,” said Artistic Director for the Santa Fe International Film Festival Jacques Paisner.
Actor Jeremiah Bitsui worked with Redford over the years, most recently on the TV show “Dark Winds” filmed in New Mexico. Bitsui said Redford paved the way for him and other storytellers. “He really had a heart for independent film, for the next visionaries that would come. Even now, you watch a lot of important film, his mark is there because he’s helped curate those voices,” said Bitsui.
Known for “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” Redford was one of the biggest stars in the 1970s. Years later, he’d start the Sundance Institute in the 1980s focused on independent film and inspiring the next generation who say they had the honor of meeting him.
The New Mexico film office sent KRQE the following statement:
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Robert Redford, a true icon whose legacy is inextricably linked to New Mexico. Beyond his legendary work as an actor, director, and producer, Mr. Redford was a profound champion of independent cinema and a visionary who understood the unique power of our landscapes and our people.
His passion for storytelling and his dedication to nurturing new talent have left an indelible mark on the film industry and will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his work.
The Albuquerque Film & Music Experience sent KRQE the statement below:
Today, we mourn the loss of an icon, a leader, and a true friend of the Albuquerque Film & Music Experience (AFMX), Robert Redford.
As a champion of independent cinema and a visionary, his impact on the film world is immeasurable. Alongside his wife, Sibylle Szaggars-Redford, Mr. Redford believed in AFMX’s vision from the very beginning, and it is no exaggeration to say that without their support, AFMX would not be what it is today – a platform for artistic expression that brings together creatives to collaborate and co-create into the future.
Mr. Redford’s belief in the power of community, storytelling, and the creative spirit will forever be the cornerstone of our festival. His legacy will live on through every film, filmmaker, musician, and artist we celebrate and every storyteller we inspire.
Our hearts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. We extend our sincerest condolences to everyone who knew him, particularly to our co-founder, Ivan Wiener.
Albuquerque Film &+ Music Experience will honor Mr. Redford at its annual Awards Ceremony, September 27. More information available at afmxnm.com.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.yahoo.com ’
