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Bob Woodward, who was portrayed by the Legendary Actor in the 1976 investigative drama the Watergate Film, has paid tribute to the late icon, describing him as “an honorable and morally grounded advocate for justice”.

Five Decades of Camaraderie

Through a post made on social media, Woodward disclosed that he and Redford shared a bond for half a century and that he “held him in high regard” for his friendship, his fierce autonomy, and his commitment to leveraging his stature to make the world better, more just, and more hopeful for others.

The Actor’s Impact on Investigative Journalism

Woodward emphasized that Redford was instrumental in exposing the Watergate scandal, encouraging both Woodward and Carl Bernstein to recount the events from the perspective of their investigative experiences. This partnership led to the publication of their nonfiction account the Watergate Chronicle in mid-1974, which preceded Nixon’s resignation later that year. Redford later acquired the film adaptation rights and appeared alongside Dustin Hoffman in the acclaimed movie adaptation.

Timeless Observations

Woodward mentioned recent conversations with Redford, in which the actor remarked that he had revisited All the President’s Men in recent years and was “taken aback” by how relevant and timely it remained, noting that “little has really changed”. Redford commented, “The Nixon era has passed, but figures like Trump have emerged”.

“Our nation exists where we are unable to call ourselves the USA. We just can’t. We’re the Divided States of America because of the political parties and they’re so robust in their anxieties.”

On Democracy and Destruction

Redford offered insight directly on Trump, after Woodward proposed that Trump was attempting to destroy democracy. “He lacks comprehension of democratic principles”, Redford stated. “Hence, dismantling it becomes simple. Ignorance facilitates destruction. One may even deny its very existence.”