Jane Fonda has expressed her admiration for Barbra Streisand’s recent Oscar tribute to Robert Redford, clarifying that her previous remarks were intended as humor. At the March Academy Awards, Streisand performed the iconic song “The Way We Were” during the In Memoriam segment for Redford, who passed away on September 16 at the age of 89.
Fonda’s Thoughts on Streisand’s Tribute
During the red carpet interviews following the Oscars, Fonda jokingly remarked that she should have been the one to pay tribute to Redford, given her extensive history of working with him. However, during the opening night of the TCM Classic Film Festival on April 30, she clarified her stance. Fonda stated, “By the way, Barbra came on the Oscars thing to honor Bob. I thought it was fabulous that they had Barbra out there.” She added that Redford would have appreciated Streisand’s heartfelt performance.
Fonda and Redford’s On-Screen Chemistry
- Jane Fonda and Robert Redford were co-stars in four films over five decades.
- Notable films include:
- “The Chase” (1966)
- “Barefoot in the Park” (1967)
- “The Electric Horseman” (1979)
- “Our Souls at Midnight” (2017)
“Barefoot in the Park,” a film adaptation of Neil Simon’s Broadway play, is particularly significant as it marked Redford’s rise to stardom. Fonda played the character Corie Bratter, a vibrant young woman adjusting to her marriage with Redford’s character, Paul Bratter.
Fonda’s Fond Memories of Redford
Fonda reflected on meeting Redford during the filming of “The Chase.” At that time, both were married to other people. Their shared chemistry grew throughout their projects, which often required them to portray intimate scenes together. Fonda recalled how she would seize opportunities to touch him during their scenes.
Throughout their friendship, Fonda noted that Redford’s charisma was evident from the start. “I knew he was going to be a big star,” she said, recalling how even secretaries would sneak peeks at him while he filmed at Paramount Studios. The two maintained a close friendship, often celebrating holidays with their families.
Redford’s Lasting Impact and Legacy
Fonda praised Redford for his contributions to cinema and his advocacy for independent filmmakers, especially highlighted by the creation of the Sundance Film Festival. “He mattered,” she stated, expressing concern over a potential merger between major film studios that could undermine independent filmmaking efforts. “We have to fight it in the spirit of Robert Redford.”
Overall, Fonda’s reflections on both the Oscar tribute and her enduring relationship with Redford convey a deep respect for his artistic legacy. Her comments underscore the impact he had on the film industry and the personal bond they shared throughout their careers.
