Newman and Redford: An On-Screen Chemistry

Paul Newman and Robert Redford’s on-screen partnership as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was electric. Despite their convincing performances, Newman admitted he harbored some grudges against the young Redford during filming.

The Film’s Impact

The 1969 film, based on the real-life outlaws, won four Oscars and remains one of the best Westerns ever produced. The duo reunited four years later in another hit, The Sting (1973).

Off-Screen Tensions

Behind the scenes, their relationship was complicated. Newman, who played Butch, admitted in a BBC interview that he wanted to play Sundance, Redford’s role. He found Sundance’s character more relaxed and relatable.

Rising Stars

Redford, a budding star, had won the Golden Globe for New Star of the Year in 1965. Newman was already a superstar with hits like Cool Hand Luke (1967) and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958). Redford joined Newman in Butch Cassidy after Steve McQueen turned down the role.

Working Styles Clash

According to Newman’s memoir, they weren’t truly friends during the filming of Butch Cassidy. Newman found Redford unreliable, saying, “You can’t depend on Redford. You’re never sure he’s going to be there.”

Newman’s daughter, Claire Newman Soderlund, noted their different working styles. “My father was very much a stickler for timeliness, and Bob was more of a free spirit,” she said.

A Lasting Bond

Despite their differences, their relationship deepened over the years. After Newman passed away in 2008, Redford reflected on their connection. “We discovered other similarities and a common ground that multiplied over time,” he said.

Almost a Third Film

The pair considered working together on a third film, A Walk in the Woods, based on Bill Bryson’s book. Redford envisioned the project with Newman in mind but ultimately cast Nick Nolte due to Newman’s health concerns.

A Friendship Like Brothers

Newman and Redford, who lived just a mile apart in Connecticut, became like brothers. Redford fondly remembered their time together, saying, “We both got to know each other’s flaws pretty well… it was so damn much fun.”

Their chemistry, both on and off-screen, left a lasting legacy in Hollywood. What do you think of their partnership and friendship?