Basic Information
| Full Name | David James Redford |
|---|---|
| Born | May 5, 1962, New York City |
| Died | October 16, 2020 (aged 58) |
| Parents | Robert Redford & Lola Van Wagenen |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Creative Writing & Filmmaking, University of Colorado Boulder (1985) Master’s in English Literature, Northwestern University |
| Occupation | Documentary Filmmaker, Environmentalist, Philanthropist |
| Notable Organizations | James Redford Institute for Transplant Awareness; The Redford Center |
Biography and Early Life
Born into a creative household on May 5, 1962, in New York City, James Redford was the second child of Oscar-winning actor and director Robert Redford and historian Lola Van Wagenen. Raised primarily on the East Coast, he spent his formative summers in Provo Canyon, Utah, absorbing both the rugged beauty of the American West and the spirit of environmental stewardship that would later inform much of his work.
After completing high school, James enrolled at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he earned a degree in creative writing and filmmaking in 1985. His passion for storytelling led him next to Northwestern University, where he obtained a master’s in English literature. It was during this period that he honed the narrative skills that would become the hallmark of his documentaries.
Personal Challenge and Advocacy
In 1993, at the age of 31, James faced a life-threatening diagnosis—primary sclerosing cholangitis—which led to two liver transplants. This harrowing experience galvanized his commitment to public health advocacy. In 1995, he founded the James Redford Institute for Transplant Awareness, dedicated to educating the public about organ donation and supporting transplant recipients and their families.
Career Highlights
| Year | Title | Subject |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia | Dyslexia awareness, inspired by his son Dylan |
| 2013 | Toxic Hot Seat | Health risks of flame-retardant chemicals |
| 2016 | Resilience | Science of adverse childhood experiences |
| 2017 | Happening: A Clean Energy Revolution | Advocacy for sustainable energy |
Over the course of his career, James Redford distinguished himself through documentaries that combined rigorous scientific research with poignant human stories. His 2012 film, The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia, remains a cornerstone resource for educators and families navigating learning differences. With Toxic Hot Seat, he ignited policy debates over household chemical safety. His work on Resilience reframed public understanding of childhood trauma, and Happening positioned him at the forefront of the clean energy conversation.
Philanthropy and Achievements
- James Redford Institute for Transplant Awareness (1995): Established to support organ donation education following his own transplant journey.
- The Redford Center (2005): Co-founded with his father, Robert Redford, to champion environmental storytelling and empower filmmakers tackling social justice issues.
Through these organizations, James helped fund grants for emerging documentary filmmakers, created educational curricula for schools, and partnered with medical institutions to improve transplant patient outreach. His leadership amplified the use of film as a catalyst for social change.
Public Image and Influence
Known for his gentle demeanor and relentless curiosity, James Redford earned a reputation as both a storyteller and a bridge-builder. Industry peers lauded his ability to weave compelling narratives that connected scientific data to real-world implications—making complex topics accessible to mainstream audiences.
His influence extends beyond cinema; policymakers, educators, and activists have cited his films when advocating for legislative change on environmental health, mental health, and education. By leveraging media to humanize statistics, he helped shift public discourse and inspire new generations of change agents.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Although James Redford passed away on October 16, 2020, his legacy endures. Today, The Redford Center continues to support filmmakers whose work addresses climate change, while the transplant awareness institute he founded maintains partnerships with over 30 medical centers nationwide.
His son Dylan’s own advocacy for learning differences stands as a living testament to James’s belief in the power of personal narrative. Meanwhile, his films remain required viewing at universities and film festivals around the globe, ensuring that his message of resilience and responsibility reaches new audiences each year.
FAQ
Who was James Redford?
James Redford was an American documentary filmmaker, environmentalist, and philanthropist, and the son of actor-director Robert Redford.
What are some of his most notable films?
His key documentaries include The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia (2012), Toxic Hot Seat (2013), Resilience (2016), and Happening: A Clean Energy Revolution (2017).
What nonprofit organizations did he establish?
He founded the James Redford Institute for Transplant Awareness in 1995 and co-founded The Redford Center in 2005 with his father.
When did James Redford pass away?
James Redford passed away on October 16, 2020, after a battle with bile-duct cancer.
Who is his sister, and what does she do?
His sister is Amy Hart Redford, an accomplished actress, director, and producer known for her work both on screen and behind the camera.
