While millions mourn the passing of Robert Redford, few know the full story behind his first marriage to Lola Van Wagenen—a relationship filled with love, hardship, and resilience that deeply shaped his life. Robert and Lola met when he was a young man trying to find his place in the world. They married in 1958, despite having very little money and settling in New York City. Lola was a young Mormon college student from Utah, and she became Robert’s partner during a difficult time when he faced personal challenges, including lost opportunities and an uncertain career path.

After their wedding, they had only $300 and borrowed a car to get home. Their early years were marked by financial struggle and simple living. Tragedy struck the couple when their first child died of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) at just five months old. The loss was devastating and left deep emotional scars. Robert later shared how painful it was to carry the weight of guilt and grief as young parents. Despite this heartbreak, they continued their life together, eventually having three more children: Shauna, David, and Amy.

Robert’s career began to take off, but the family still faced many challenges. Their son David struggled with serious health problems, including liver complications that required two transplants. Sadly, David passed away in 2020 from bile duct cancer, leaving the family with more grief. Throughout these difficult times, Robert and Lola worked to keep their family strong.

By the mid-1980s, Robert and Lola decided to divorce. Though their marriage ended, they remained respectful and supportive of each other, a rare outcome for many Hollywood couples. Lola went on to become a successful documentary producer, known for works like American Experience and The State of Marriage. She later remarried and settled in Vermont.

Robert found love again with Sibylle Szaggars, a German artist he met through the Sundance Institute. They married in 2009 in an intimate ceremony in Germany. Despite the challenges and losses he faced, Robert’s personal and professional life was marked by perseverance and growth.

Robert Redford passed away peacefully at age 89 in his beloved Utah home. He left behind a legacy not only of iconic films and support for independent cinema but also a story of enduring love, loss, and resilience—a reminder of the strength it takes to overcome life’s greatest challenges.