The Robert Redford Roles That Warren Beatty Passed On

Robert Redford is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated and respected actors in cinematic history, representing a key figure from the early days of ‘New Hollywood.’ Not only is he a gifted performer, but he has also made his mark as an accomplished filmmaker, winning an Oscar for Best Director for his work on Ordinary People and earning another nomination for Quiz Show. Plus, he co-founded the Sundance Film Festival, adding to his impressive legacy.

One of Redford’s most iconic roles is as Harry “Sundance” Longabaugh in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, where he starred alongside Paul Newman. This character, named after the Sundance Film Festival, helped cement Redford’s place in Hollywood. Interestingly, had circumstances been different, he might not have played this defining role.

Redford received his only Oscar nomination for his unforgettable portrayal of Johnny Hooker in The Sting (1973). Interestingly, Warren Beatty was the first choice for this role but opted out, feeling that the film’s storyline resembled that of his own success, Bonnie and Clyde. The producers sought another actor with comparable star power, leading them to cast Redford.

But that wasn’t the only time Beatty’s decision opened doors for Redford. Later in 1973, when Sydney Pollack was developing The Way We Were, Beatty was intended to star opposite Barbra Streisand but withdrew to support a political campaign. Redford stepped in, starring in this classic romantic drama.

The following year, Redford took on the title role in The Great Gatsby, another part that originally went to Beatty, along with Jack Nicholson. Beatty was uncomfortable filming alongside Ali McGraw, who was cast as Daisy Buchanan, paving the way for Redford to shine in a role he later admitted he disliked.

Even into the 1990s, Redford continued to nab parts initially intended for Beatty. In 1993’s Indecent Proposal, Beatty expressed interest, but ultimately, it was Redford who took the role, which was noted to have a different dynamic thanks to his established image.

In retrospect, Warren Beatty’s choices not only influenced his own career but also paved the way for Robert Redford to shine in some of his most memorable performances.