Introduction to Sibylle Szaggars, Robert Redford’s Wife
Sibylle Szaggars, the wife of the late Hollywood legend Robert Redford, is a celebrated German-born multimedia artist and environmental activist. Married to Redford from 2009 until his passing on September 16, 2025, at age 89, Szaggars carved her own path in the art world, distinct from her husband’s Hollywood fame. This article explores her life, career, environmental advocacy, and her relationship with Redford, offering insights into the woman who stood beside one of cinema’s greatest icons.
Early Life and Background
Born in Hamburg, Germany, Sibylle Szaggars developed a deep connection to nature and culture from a young age. Her childhood travels exposed her to indigenous cultures and ancient lands, fostering a lifelong passion for environmental preservation. This early influence shaped her artistic vision, which often explores the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Szaggars’ multicultural background and artistic curiosity set the stage for her distinguished career as a multimedia artist.
Artistic Career and Achievements
Sibylle Szaggars is renowned for her work as a multimedia environmental artist, with a career spanning nearly four decades. Her art, which includes painting, installations, and performance pieces, transcends cultural and political boundaries, aiming to connect viewers with the universal consciousness of the Earth. Her exhibitions have been showcased globally, from Europe to Asia and the United States, earning her recognition in the art world.
In 2015, Szaggars founded The Way of the Rain, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about climate change through artistic performances. These large-scale productions blend music, dance, film, and visual art to inspire collective responsibility for the planet. Redford, a committed environmentalist himself, served as vice president of the organization, supporting Szaggars’ vision while allowing her to lead the initiative. Her work has been praised for its innovative approach to merging art with environmental advocacy.
Meeting Robert Redford: A Unique Love Story
Sibylle Szaggars met Robert Redford in 1996 at his Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah, a place synonymous with his legacy as the founder of the Sundance Film Festival. At the time, Szaggars, who had come to ski, knew little about Redford’s Hollywood career, having seen only a few of his films, such as Jeremiah Johnson and Barefoot in the Park. This lack of familiarity intrigued Redford, who appreciated the genuine connection they formed, untainted by his celebrity status.
Their relationship began as a friendship, grounded in shared values and a mutual love for the environment. Redford, 20 years her senior, described Szaggars as a “very special person” who brought a “whole new life” to him in a 2011 interview with AARP The Magazine. The couple’s bond deepened over the years, leading to their marriage in 2009 in Hamburg, Germany, in an intimate ceremony attended by 30 family members and friends.
Marriage to Robert Redford
Szaggars and Redford’s wedding was a private affair, reflecting their preference for a low-profile personal life. Redford wore a white suit, while Szaggars donned a champagne-hued gown, according to local reports. The ceremony took place at the Louis C. Jacob Hotel in Hamburg, with Szaggars’ connection to a local parish adding a personal touch. The couple’s shared passion for environmentalism and the arts defined their marriage, with joint appearances often tied to their advocacy work, such as the 2013 Cannes premiere of Redford’s film All Is Lost or the 2015 Chaplin Award Gala.
Despite their public profiles, Szaggars and Redford maintained a private relationship, rarely discussing personal details in the media. Szaggars became a stepmother to Redford’s four children from his first marriage to Lola Van Wagenen: Scott (who died in infancy), Shauna, James (who passed away in 2020), and Amy. She also embraced her role as a step-grandmother to Redford’s seven grandchildren.
Environmental Activism and Shared Values
Environmentalism was a cornerstone of Szaggars and Redford’s relationship. Both were deeply committed to protecting the planet, a passion that traced back to their respective childhoods. Szaggars’ nonprofit, The Way of the Rain, became a platform for their shared mission, with Redford actively supporting her efforts. The organization’s performances, which combine art and education, have been instrumental in promoting public awareness of climate change and environmental preservation.
Szaggars’ artwork often reflects her environmental concerns, drawing inspiration from indigenous cultures and their respect for nature. Redford, who founded the Sundance Institute and the Redford Center to support environmental filmmaking, found in Szaggars a partner whose vision complemented his own. Their collaboration extended to their life in Utah, where they lived in a secluded home outside Provo, near the Sundance Mountain Resort.
Life After Robert Redford’s Passing
Following Robert Redford’s death on September 16, 2025, Szaggars continues to carry forward their shared legacy. As the creative director of The Way of the Rain, she remains dedicated to her environmental and artistic work. Her Sundance cabin, purchased in the late 1980s and located just a mile from the Sundance Mountain Resort, was listed for $3.9 million in 2024, reflecting her ongoing connection to the area where she and Redford met.
Szaggars’ resilience and independence have defined her response to Redford’s passing. While she mourns the loss of her husband, her commitment to art and activism remains unwavering, ensuring that their shared values live on through her work and the initiatives they built together.
Fun Facts About Sibylle Szaggars
- Global Exhibitions: Szaggars’ artwork has been displayed in prestigious venues across Europe, Asia, and the U.S., showcasing her international influence.
- Sundance Connection: She owns a fine art gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, further tying her to the artistic community Redford fostered.
- Private Persona: Despite her proximity to fame, Szaggars avoids the spotlight, focusing on her art and advocacy rather than public attention.
Conclusion
Sibylle Szaggars is more than just Robert Redford’s wife; she is a trailblazing artist and environmentalist whose work has left a lasting impact. Her marriage to Redford was built on mutual respect, shared passions, and a commitment to making the world a better place. As she continues her journey, Szaggars remains a powerful force in the art world and a steward of the environmental causes she and Redford championed together. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity, activism, and love in creating a meaningful legacy.