“I was always in love with him,” Jane Fonda expressed during a poignant tribute to her late friend and collaborator Robert Redford at the 2026 Oscars held at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood. Fonda’s emotional remarks came in the wake of Redford’s passing on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89.
Fonda and Redford shared a remarkable history, collaborating on four films: The Tall Story (1960), The Chase (1966), Barefoot in the Park (1967), and Our Souls at Night (2017). Their artistic partnership was not only significant in cinema but also forged a deep personal bond.
During the In Memoriam segment, Barbra Streisand honored Redford, performing a touching rendition of “The Way We Were.” Streisand described Redford as having “real backbone on and off the screen,” highlighting his strength and character.
Fonda, reflecting on her connection with Redford, noted, “I want to know how come Streisand was up there doing that for Redford?” She felt she had more to share about Redford due to their extensive collaboration compared to Streisand’s single film with him.
In her tribute, Fonda described Redford as “the most gorgeous human being and such great values,” emphasizing the impact he had on her life and career. She also remarked that he revolutionized independent filmmaking, a testament to his influence in Hollywood.
Streisand referred to Redford as an “intellectual cowboy who blazed his own trail,” capturing the essence of his unique persona in the film industry. Fonda echoed this sentiment, stating that Redford represented an America that must be fought for.
Fonda’s grief was palpable as she shared, “I cried all morning after hearing about Redford’s death,” illustrating the profound loss felt not only by her but by many in the industry.
As the film community continues to mourn Redford’s passing, tributes like those from Fonda and Streisand serve as a reminder of his legacy and the indelible mark he left on cinema.
