Robert Redford stands as one of Hollywood's most enduring figures, balancing acting, directing, and activism across decades. Among the recurring questions about his personal life, his relationship history often prompts curiosity about how many times Robert Redford married.
His romantic journey reflects both private intentions and high-profile moments covered by the media, shaping public perception of the legendary actor and filmmaker. The following sections organize key details chronologically for clarity and easy reference.
| Marriage | Spouse | Years Married | Children Together |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Lola Van Wagenen | 1958–1985 | 4 |
| Second | Sibylle Szaggars | 2006–present | 0 |
Early Romance and First Marriage to Lola Van Wagenen
Robert Redford met Lola Van Wagenen while studying at the University of Colorado, and their connection quickly evolved into a serious commitment. They married in 1958, launching both a partnership and a family-oriented chapter in his life.
During this period, Redford prioritized building a stable home while gradually advancing his acting career, balancing early roles with personal responsibilities. The marriage produced four children before they chose to separate in the early 1980s, culminating in their formal divorce in 1985.
Personal Life Between Marriages
Following his divorce from Lola Van Wagenen, Redford consciously focused on his professional projects, including directing and producing ventures that would define his legacy in Hollywood. Although he maintained relationships and attracted public attention, he did not marry again for more than two decades.
This extended interval between marriages allowed him to deepen his involvement in environmental advocacy and to establish the Sundance Institute, highlighting commitments that extended beyond personal partnerships.
Second Marriage to Sibylle Szaggars
In the 2000s, Robert Redford began a relationship with German artist and model Sibylle Szaggars, a partnership that eventually led to marriage. They wed in 2006, bringing renewed media attention to his private life in his later years.
Their marriage remains intact, marking his second and current union, and reflecting a long-term commitment built on shared interests and mutual support well into his senior career.
Relationship Timeline and Key Events
Understanding Robert Redford's marital journey becomes clearer when viewing it within a structured timeline of major personal and professional milestones. The table below summarizes his relationships and corresponding durations for quick reference.
| Event | Year | Details | Public Impact | tr>First Marriage | 1958 | Married Lola Van Wagenen | Private, later media retrospectives |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Children with Lola | 1959–1965 | Four children born during this period | Family-oriented coverage | ||||
| Separation from Lola | 1980s | Parted amicably, focused on career and causes | Reduced personal media attention | ||||
| Relationship with Szaggars | 1990s–2000 | Long-term partnership before marriage | Renewed interest in his personal life | ||||
| Second Marriage | 2006 | Married Sibylle Szaggars | Modest media coverage, emphasis on stability |
Robert Redford Marriage Frequently Asked Questions
How many times was Robert Redford married in total?
Robert Redford has been married two times: first to Lola Van Wagenen from 1958 to 1985, and second to Sibylle Szaggars from 2006 to the present.
Did he have children with his second wife, Sibylle Szaggars?
No, he has not had any children with Sibylle Szaggars; his four children are from his first marriage to Lola Van Wagenen.
How long were they married before tying the knot in 2006?
Redford and Szaggars began their relationship in the late 1990s, dating for several years before marrying in 2006, though the exact duration of their courtship is not publicly detailed.
Has he spoken publicly about lessons from his divorces?
He has occasionally reflected on the importance of privacy and personal growth, emphasizing how relationships shaped his perspective on family and career balance.
Balancing Career, Activism, and Partnership
Throughout his life, Robert Redford has intertwined artistic innovation with advocacy, using his platform to support environmental and political causes. These commitments have often coexisted with his roles as a husband and father.
The steadiness of his long-term relationship with Szaggars highlights how personal and professional endeavors can align without constant public scrutiny.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Robert Redford married twice, with his first marriage lasting 27 years and his second ongoing since 2006.
- He has four children, all from his first marriage, and maintains a relatively private family life.
- His long intervals between marriages reflect a focus on career, purpose, and personal values.
- Public discussions of his relationships emphasize stability, mutual respect, and enduring partnerships.
- Understanding his timeline offers insight into balancing creative work with meaningful personal commitments.