Though they played legendary outlaws, Paul Newman admired Robert Redford, and off-screen, they had a brotherly bond

Newman and Redford: From Rivals to Brothers

While Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were inseparable on screen, Paul Newman admitted he initially envied his younger co-star, Robert Redford. During filming, Newman, playing Robert LeRoy Parker (“Butch Cassidy”), confessed he wished he could have played Redford’s role as Harry Longabaugh (“Sundance Kid”).

Wild West Legends Come to Life

The 1969 Western showcased the duo’s remarkable acting skills. Their portrayals of notorious outlaws on the run captivated audiences. The film earned four Oscars and remains one of the greatest Westerns ever made. Four years later, Newman and Redford reunited in The Sting (1973), delivering another legendary performance.

On-Set Tensions

Newman, 44 at the time, admired Redford, who was 33 and rising fast after Inside Daisy Clover (1965). Despite their chemistry, Newman admitted in BBC Talking Pictures, “You can’t depend on Redford. You’re never sure he’s going to be there.” His daughter, Claire Newman Soderlund, explained the tension came from differing work styles: Newman was meticulous and punctual, while Redford was more of a free spirit.

Actors Paul Newman (L) and Robert Redford attend the Sundance Institute 25th Anniversary celebration at Metropolitan Pavilion November 06, 2006 in New York City. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Getty Images)

Growing Friendship

Over time, the actors’ connection deepened. Redford reflected on their partnership, telling ABC News, “It was just that connection of playing those characters and the fun of it that really began the relationship… we discovered other similarities that just multiplied over time.”

Almost a Third Film

The pair considered a third project, A Walk in the Woods (2015), based on Bill Bryson’s book. Redford chose the script with Newman in mind, but Newman declined due to physical demands. Nick Nolte eventually took the role.

Life Beyond the Screen

Newman and Redford became like family. Living just a mile apart in Connecticut, their families grew close. Redford remembered, “We got to know each other’s flaws pretty well… and we’d try to surprise each other. It was so much fun that it became a scenario unto itself.” He added, “Paul loved to laugh—especially at his own jokes. Being caught up in his joy was infectious.”

Legendary Chemistry

From on-screen outlaws to lifelong friends, Newman and Redford shared a bond that went far beyond Hollywood. Their brotherly love off-set matched the legendary partnership audiences adored on-screen.