Scott Anthony Redford: Biography, Early Life, And Legacy
Who was Scott Anthony Redford, and why does his story continue to resonate, even decades after his passing? Despite a tragically short life, Scott Anthony Redford's legacy persists, inextricably linked to the enduring fame of his parents and the poignant circumstances of his death.
Born on September 1, 1959, Scott Anthony Redford entered the world as the firstborn son of Robert Redford, already a rising star in Hollywood, and Lola Van Wagenen, a woman of intellect and passion. His birth marked a significant moment, not just for the Redford family, but also for the burgeoning career of his father, who was beginning to establish himself as a leading figure in American cinema. The year of his birth was a pivotal one for Robert Redford, a time when he was on the cusp of major breakthroughs in his acting career.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Scott Anthony Redford |
| Birth Date | September 1, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | United States |
| Parents | Robert Redford (Actor, Director, Producer) and Lola Van Wagenen (Historian) |
| Siblings | Shauna Redford, David James Redford, Amy Redford, and James Redford (deceased) |
| Cause of Death | Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) |
| Date of Death | November 17, 1959 (Santa Monica, Los Angeles County, CA, United States) |
| Burial Location | Provo City Cemetery, Provo, Utah |
| Known For | Son of Robert Redford, and his impact in the entertainment industry |
| Reference | IMDb |
The narrative of Scott Anthony Redford, however, is one of heartbreaking brevity. His life, which began under the bright lights of Hollywood and the promise of a future, was tragically cut short. Just two and a half months after his birth, on November 17, 1959, Scott succumbed to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This devastating loss deeply affected the Redford family, forever altering the course of their lives. The family's grief was compounded by the circumstances, as the young actor, who was still very early in his career, was faced with the profound sorrow of losing his first child.
The Redford family's story is interwoven with the early years of Robert Redford's career. In 1958, Robert Redford married Lola Van Wagenen, and in 1959, they welcomed Scott Anthony Redford into the world. This period was not just a time of personal growth and milestones, but also marked the beginning of Robert Redford's ascent to international fame. Even amidst the personal tragedy, Redford's career continued to flourish, with his talent and charisma captivating audiences worldwide. The familys early years were punctuated by both joy and sorrow, with the birth of Scott Anthony Redford being a high point that was soon followed by profound loss.
The impact of this event is best understood when considered within the broader context of the Redford family's lives. Lola Van Wagenen, a historian, had a passion for education and a deep commitment to social issues. Robert Redford, who was also dealing with his own personal struggles, including alcoholism, was simultaneously building a career. The birth of Scott, and then the tragic loss, undoubtedly shaped both of their perspectives on life and the importance of family. The experience of losing a child left an indelible mark on both parents, influencing their future actions and their deep commitment to charitable causes. The birth of Scott and the subsequent sorrow, forever linked their lives, and it became the narrative of the famous family.
The narrative of Scott Anthony Redford is a reminder of the fragility of life. The short time he spent on earth just two and a half months is a stark contrast to the enduring legacy of his parents. Robert Redford, of course, went on to become one of the most respected and celebrated figures in the entertainment industry, his work earning him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, Golden Globe Awards, and the Cecil B. DeMille Award. His career has spanned decades, and his influence extends beyond acting to include directing, producing, and championing environmental causes. The Sundance Film Festival, which he founded, has become a cornerstone of independent cinema. Meanwhile, Lola Van Wagenen dedicated her life to historical research and philanthropic endeavors, leaving a mark on the world. The tragic early death of Scott Anthony Redford cast a long shadow across the family, shaping their paths and inspiring their future efforts.
Scott's story is also indicative of a wider cultural context. In the late 1950s, SIDS was a little-understood phenomenon. The sudden and unexplained nature of the deaths of infants like Scott must have been especially agonizing for parents at the time. Today, increased awareness and research have helped to reduce the incidence of SIDS, but the pain experienced by families who lost children to the syndrome remains timeless and profound. The loss of Scott in 1959, and the lack of understanding of the disease during that time, created a lasting impression on the Redford family.
The early death of Scott Anthony Redford continues to be remembered because of the way it illuminates the lives of his parents, particularly Robert Redford. His story serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family and the lasting impact of loss. It also brings into focus the human side of celebrity, reminding us that even those who appear to have it all are not immune to the basic human experiences of love, grief, and struggle. His passing, and the way it affected the famous family, continues to draw attention to the human side of celebrity and the complexities of life.
The legacy of Scott Anthony Redford, while brief, is also a testament to the enduring power of memory. Even though he was taken from the world too soon, his existence is a reminder of his parents' journey and the enduring strength of family. His story is etched into the history of one of Hollywoods most famous families, and it continues to inspire people to remember their roots and the important events that shaped their lives. The story of Scott Anthony Redford, though filled with sorrow, provides a window into the lives of those who have shaped the world.
The impact of Scott's passing extended beyond his immediate family, as it occurred against the backdrop of Robert Redfords rising fame. This event is a stark reminder that even those at the pinnacle of success are subject to the same heartaches and tragedies as everyone else. The event is a lesson of love, loss, and the way that life and death can reshape ones perspective and priorities. The life of Scott Anthony Redford, though tragically short, has left an indelible mark on the family.
In remembering Scott Anthony Redford, we acknowledge the profound impact of SIDS on families. Scotts story compels us to reflect on the fragility of life, the enduring power of family, and the importance of cherishing the moments we have. His legacy reminds us of the importance of raising awareness and providing support to those affected by infant loss. The memory of Scott Anthony Redford encourages a dialogue about the human condition and what truly matters in life.
