The world lost a Hollywood legend on September 16, 2025, when Robert Redford passed away at the age of 89 in his beloved Sundance home in Utah. Among those most shaken by the news was his longtime friend and co-star Jane Fonda. At 87, Fonda shared her sorrow openly, confessing, “It hit me hard this morning when I read that Bob was gone. I can’t stop crying. He meant a lot to me and was a beautiful person in every way. He stood for an America we have to keep fighting for.”

Video: Our Souls At Night | Official Trailer

A Partnership Written in Film History
Jane Fonda and Robert Redford’s connection stretched far beyond their first meeting on the set of Tall Story in 1960. Over the next five decades, they starred together in five memorable films, creating a cinematic partnership that audiences adored. Their playful yet deeply moving chemistry shone in Barefoot in the Park (1967), while their later collaboration in the Netflix drama Our Souls at Night (2017) gave fans a chance to see their on-screen magic one final time.

Moments of Joy and Laughter
Fonda’s tribute on Instagram captured the essence of their friendship. Sharing a still from Our Souls at Night, she wrote about the fun they had and the countless moments when Redford’s mischievous jokes made her laugh until she cried. “Bob made a real difference in all good ways,” she wrote. “He revolutionized independent filmmaking and made us swoon in so many movies. I am very sad today. Cried all morning. But luckily I can think back on so many joyful, laughter-filled moments when his practical jokes would crack me up.”

Video: Jane Fonda Talks Being Reunited with Robert Redford… in Bed

From Young Romance to Mature Love Stories
In Barefoot in the Park, Fonda and Redford charmed audiences as newlyweds discovering the highs and lows of marriage in a tiny New York apartment. Decades later, in Our Souls at Night, they portrayed two older neighbors who find love and companionship late in life. Fonda once said she fell “madly in love” with Redford during their first film together and treasured the chance to revisit their on-screen romance in their final project.

Admiration and Mutual Respect
Redford often expressed admiration for Fonda’s resilience and energy. While promoting Our Souls at Night, he described their working relationship as effortless, saying, “Things just kind of fell into place between us, and there wasn’t much more to think about.” He called her a “force” who never let the past hold her back—a quality he found both rare and inspiring. Their mutual respect was evident in every public appearance and interview.

A Lesson in Cherishing the Present
Fonda admitted she had planned to visit Redford in recent months but waited too long. “Lesson learned,” she wrote in her tribute. “When people are our age, late 80s, don’t wait. Thank you, dearest Bob, for all the pleasure you brought over the years. RIP.” Her words are a heartfelt reminder of the importance of reaching out to loved ones while there’s still time.

Video: Robert Redford Dies at 89: Look Back at His Life in Hollywood

A Lasting Influence on Cinema and Beyond
Together, Fonda and Redford helped define an era of film, from the romantic charm of The Chase (1966) to the heartfelt maturity of Our Souls at Night. Redford’s groundbreaking work with the Sundance Institute and Fonda’s own trailblazing career reflect a shared dedication to art and storytelling that will continue to inspire. Their partnership remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved collaborations.

Jane Fonda’s tribute beautifully captures the depth of her friendship and creative bond with Robert Redford. Their journey from young co-stars to lifelong companions is more than a Hollywood story—it’s a testament to enduring friendship, mutual respect, and the magic of shared artistry. Though Robert Redford is gone, the films and memories he created with Jane Fonda will continue to captivate and inspire for generations.