General Hospital's Finola Hughes honors Robert Redford’s career and Sundance legacy in touching post

General Hospital
General Hospital's Finola Hughes, and Robert Redford. | Image Source: JPI

General Hospital fans have been admiring actress Finola Hughes and her character Anna Devane since the 1980s. Like many soap stars, she shares her thoughts and personal tidbits on social media, and recently shared her own bittersweet admiration for a fallen legend. She paid tribute to one of cinema’s most enduring icons, Robert Redford, who passed away recently. The actor was well known for classic films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, as well as his groundbreaking work as a director and founder of the Sundance Film Festival. Hughes reflected on his artistry, impact, and the inspiration he gave her as both a performer and filmmaker.

A Tribute to a Legend

On Instagram, General Hospital star Finola Hughes posted a striking black-and-white image of a young Robert Redford, accompanied by her moving words: “One of the greats. As a kid sneaking in to see Butch Cassidy, I was floored by his performance. He made me laugh hysterically in Barefoot in the Park. Too many amazing roles to name here. But of course, his work championing independent filmmakers has changed the industry forever. It was an honor to attend Sundance & how brilliantly it has grown. Thank you for your work, Mr Redford. Godspeed.”

Her post quickly drew a wave of fan responses. @isabeljmlosada remarked, “There are some men it’s easy to love without having met - RR was certainly one of them.” @thelaughingpony3 added, “Barefoot in the Park is one of my all-time favorites! This world will miss him terribly. What an amazing man and environmentalist.” Others, like @schnabeldeborah, echoed the General Hospital star’s sentiment, writing, “So handsome and a wonderful actor, one of my favorites. Rest in Peace, Robert Redford.” @eva.m.s_61 admitted, “Omg! I didn't know he passed. Godspeed.”

The thread was filled with both grief and admiration. @imaginaryerika observed, “His work was so inspirational, not only as an actor and director, but also as a benefactor and promoter of independent cinema. We’re so lucky he shared his gifts with the world.” @marsisblessed wrote, “What a lovely tribute. RIP Legend! Love from Salt Lake City, Utah.” @dmk1207 added, “Adored him, and that picture you posted is always how I’ll remember him. What a legend. What a life well lived. RIP.”

Remembering Redford Through Fans

General Hospital's Anna Devane. | Image Source: ABC
General Hospital's Anna Devane. | Image Source: ABC

Fans also shared personal stories and movie memories. @queenkanani said, “Beautiful post! I wrote one as well! So saddened by his passing. So many incredible movies, the list is endless! But The Way We Were is a favorite.” @liljerseygirllost reflected, “Yes to everything you said, and I'm glad I grew up in a world with parents that loved Robert Redford, him and Paul Newman. Luckily, some of the films like Butch and Sundance were on TV when I was at the right age to want to see them.” @jaker418 even recalled a personal encounter: “I worked with him on a movie in Miami thirty years ago. When I met him and referred to him as Mr. Redford, he said, ‘Please, call me Bob.’ I thought that was so cool and down-to-earth of him.”

Others summed up their feelings more simply. @nadkirk wrote, “He will be missed.” @klewis3918 offered, “He gave us a lifetime of phenomenal films. Rest easy, Sir. Job well done.” And @annetteconlonmusic shared a heartfelt memory: “The Sundance Kid was my first crush, even if I was too young for crushes. RIP to a true legend (and heartthrob).” (Find out about one of Hughes’ tributes to the late General Hospital icon Tristan Rogers.)

General Hospital can be seen weekdays on ABC and Hulu.