Hollywood veteran Robert Redford tragically passed away at 89, but his enduring legacy will remain in the industry, as evident in his final movie appearance, which continues to be a major blockbuster.
The actor had a cameo scene in Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame in 2019, and according to the filmmakers via the film’s commentary track, Redford said that the superhero movie would be his swan song (via Heroic Hollywood):
Christopher Marcus: And this is, as declared by the man himself on set, Robert Redford’s last movie role.
Joe Russo: That was his last day of acting…ever.
Anthony Russo: His last performance, Stan Lee’s last performance.
Joe Russo: Yeah, seven years of really incredible moments on these movies, this is certainly up there, directing Robert Redford’s last day.
In 2020, however, Redford voiced a role in the anthology movie Omniboat: A Fast Boat Fantasia. He also worked as a producer for the television series Dark Winds
Robert Redford’s MCU Debut Happened Because of His Curiosity About the Modern Superhero Genre
Redford played Alexander Pierce in 2014’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, who was known as an old comrade of Nick Fury and a member of the World Security Council. The role was an homage to the actor’s 1970s thrillers, as he was notable for portraying villainous roles.
When asked about why he agreed to join the movie, Redford told Entertainment Weekly:
One of the reasons that I did it was I wanted to experience this new form of filmmaking that’s taken over where you have kind of cartoon characters brought to life through high technology.
He was excited about the prospect of trying something new in his already successful career, and he even referred to the Marvel film as one he would have loved to see as a kid.
Redford reprised the role in a cameo scene in Avengers: Endgame after the main characters traveled back in time to find the tesseract. The movie ended up raking in $2.7 billion at the global box office, making it one of the highest-grossing titles of all time.
More Than A Hollywood Icon, Redford Was the Champion of The Independent Film Industry
His most enduring contribution to cinema was the establishment of the Sundance Institute and Film Festival, the country’s largest festival for independent movies.
Many filmmakers today have found success in their careers as they finally have a chance to showcase their masterpieces in an immersive and engaging venue.
Redford’s passing left a huge dent in the industry, but his fans and loved ones will certainly remember him not only as a prolific actor but also as a person of integrity, especially through his activism and philanthropic works.
What was your favorite Robert Redford movie? Let us know in the comments!
Avengers: Endgame is currently available to watch on Disney+.