'He was larger than life': Utah Film Commissioner speaks about Robert Redford's life and legacy
On September 16, 2025, Robert Redford passed away at his Sundance home.
Robert Redford was an Oscar-winning director, liberal activist, and became known as the “godfather for independent cinema” when he founded Sundance, after the name of one of his most-loved characters.
Following his passing, many of Redford’s fellow actors and many Utah public figures have shared statements or comments about him.
“He really championed film as art at a time when that wasn’t the case nationwide,” Virginia Pearce, the Utah Film Commission Director, said about Redford, adding that she admired “his vision of allowing emerging storytellers to find a place to tell unique stories”.
Pearce emphasized Redford’s importance in supporting independent film and in supporting economic and community development through the Sundance resorts and festival, describing him as ‘larger than life’.
“I think he obviously created such an impact here in Utah,” Pearce added, “The work we do here at the film commission, I hope, is continuing on his view and vision for film…encouraging emerging filmmakers to tell their story, to bring new productions here into Utah, to show off these landscapes that we love so much. I hope we make him proud.”
Though Redford has passed away, the Film Commission hopes to further his vision.
“In Utah, we have this thriving creative economy that is growing out of the legacy that he created, and I think that, to me, is our biggest give back to him and to his legacy,” Pearce expressed.
Several other public Utah figures spoke on Redford’s passing. Governor Spencer Cox issued a statement on social media that read:
“Decades ago, Robert Redford came to Utah and fell in love with this place. He cherished our landscapes and built a legacy that made Utah a home for storytelling and creativity. Through Sundance and his devotion to conservation, he shared Utah with the world.
“Today we honor his life, his vision, and his lasting contribution to our state.”
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson also provided a public statement, recalling her personal experience working at Sundance as her first full-time position.
“Redford`s values, his actions, and his vision have helped define the Utah we know today, and for the better. Redford was passionate about many things, including the environment and the arts, but also politics; yet his comments were always thoughtful and respectful, which is rare today,” Wilson shared.
“Robert Redford changed the trajectory of Park City and left an indelible mark on Utah. Through his vision for the Sundance Film Festival, he brought world-class art to our mountains and introduced so many of us to the power of independent film,” Park City Mayor Nann Worel said in a statement.
“He was a maverick unafraid to chart his own path showing that ideas and creativity can flourish even amid our differences. His legacy is both beautiful and profound, and one for which we all should be deeply grateful,” Mayor Worel added.
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