At 88 years old, Robert Redford made a revelation that left fans around the world stunned. The actor, renowned for his unforgettable roles in classics like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, opened up about the love of his life—a deeply personal truth he had kept private for decades. Why, after so many years, did he decide to share this story now?
The Foundation of Love
Robert Redford’s name is synonymous with Hollywood greatness. He’s the Sundance Kid, the suave journalist uncovering scandals, and the rugged cowboy embodying the American West. Yet, beneath the glittering accolades lies a man whose personal life has always been a mystery.
Born Charles Robert Redford Jr. on August 18, 1936, in Santa Monica, California, Redford grew up in a middle-class household with a stay-at-home mom, Martha Hart, and a father who worked as a milkman and later as an accountant. From an early age, he showed a rebellious streak and an independent spirit, traits that would define much of his life.
Redford’s mother played a pivotal role in shaping him. Martha was not just a mother; she was his confidant and cheerleader. Her untimely death left a void that would linger for years. But life, with its unpredictable turns, brought serendipity. During his college years, when Redford was still finding his footing, he met the woman who would change his life forever: Lola Van Wagenen.
A Love That Felt Destined
Redford and Lola met during his time at the University of Colorado. Their meeting wasn’t an over-the-top Hollywood moment. Instead, it was subtle and real, a connection that sneaks up and takes root. Lola, with her quiet strength and elegance, balanced Redford’s restless energy. They shared a love for art, nature, and deep conversations. It wasn’t just love; it was a partnership.
In 1958, they married in a private ceremony in Las Vegas, shunning Hollywood glamour for authenticity. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with joy and struggles. Redford was still trying to establish himself as an actor, taking on odd jobs to make ends meet. Through it all, Lola remained his unwavering rock, offering support and reassurance even during the toughest times.
Their happiness grew with the birth of their first child, Scott Anthony Redford. However, tragedy struck just two months later when Scott passed away from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The loss was devastating, but it brought them closer, deepening their bond and fortifying their resilience.
Building a Life Amidst Fame
As Redford’s career began to take off, with iconic roles in films like Barefoot in the Park and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, the couple’s lives became increasingly public. Fame brought relentless media scrutiny, and the demands of Hollywood often kept Redford away from home. Yet, Lola worked tirelessly to create stability for their growing family, which eventually included three more children: Shauna, Jamie, and Amy.
However, the pressures of fame and the distance created by their diverging paths took a toll. By the late 1970s, cracks began to show in their marriage. Redford’s growing ambitions in Hollywood and Lola’s dedication to activism led to their separation in 1985, after 27 years of marriage.
A Love That Endures
Despite their divorce, Redford and Lola’s respect and affection for each other never faded. They continued to co-parent their children and support each other’s endeavors. Lola’s influence remained a cornerstone in Redford’s life, shaping the man he became both on and off-screen.
Looking back, Redford credits Lola for grounding him during the whirlwind of fame. She was his moral compass, the one who reminded him of what truly mattered. Their love, though changed, endured as a testament to the strength of their bond.
Reflection and Revelation
For years, Redford remained silent about the depth of his relationship with Lola. But as he entered his later years, he found himself reflecting on the moments and people who shaped him. At 88, he chose to share this deeply personal story, perhaps as a way to honor the woman who played such a pivotal role in his life.
Robert Redford’s revelation reminds us that even amidst the glamour of Hollywood, the most meaningful stories are often the ones rooted in authenticity and connection. His love for Lola Van Wagenen wasn’t just a chapter in his life; it was the foundation upon which much of his journey was built. And though their paths diverged, the love they shared left an indelible mark on both their lives.
By unveiling this story, Redford has given fans a glimpse into his true self. It’s a reminder that behind the legends we admire are individuals who experience love, loss, and transformation—a humbling and humanizing truth.
