An Extraordinary Legacy: Honoring Robert Redford and "Ordinary People"
Released in 1980, the film not only marked a powerful transition in Redford’s career but also redefined the American family drama, earning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Redford, and Best Supporting Actor for Timothy Hutton (then just 20, and still the youngest recipient of that award).
Ordinary People is renowned for its subtle, deeply moving exploration of grief, reconciliation, and healing within a fractured family, brought to life by a remarkable ensemble led by Donald Sutherland, Mary Tyler Moore, Judd Hirsch, and Timothy Hutton. The film resonated with audiences and critics alike for its authentic portrayal of psychological struggles and its compassionate storytelling.
Our program will feature special guests Timothy Hutton and Judd Hirsch, who will reflect on their experiences making the film and discuss its lasting cultural influence alongside Redford’s legacy as a director. Through personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes insights, and audience Q&A, the evening promises a rich tribute to both the artistry of Redford and the transformative power of Ordinary People.
Judd Hirsch
Judd Hirsch, born March 15, 1935, in the Bronx, New York, is an acclaimed American actor known for a career spanning over five decades across television, film, and stage. He first rose to prominence as Alex Reiger on the classic sitcom Taxi (1978-1983), earning two Emmy Awards, and later starred in Dear John and Numb3rs. His film work includes acclaimed performances in Ordinary People (1980), Running on Empty (1988), Independence Day (1996) and its 2016 sequel, A Beautiful Mind (2001), The Meyerowitz Stories (2017), Uncut Gems (2019), and Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans (2022), which earned him an Oscar nomination—making him one of the oldest nominees in Academy history. A Tony Award-winning stage actor as well, Hirsch continues to be celebrated for his versatility, longevity, and remarkable ability to move seamlessly between comedy, drama, and generations of storytelling.
Timothy Hutton
Timothy Hutton is a distinguished American actor and director, renowned as the youngest recipient of the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, which he won at age 20 for his role as Conrad Jarrett in “Ordinary People” (1980). Hutton has made significant contributions to film and television with notable roles in “Taps” (1981), “The Falcon and the Snowman” (1985), “The Dark Half” (1993), and many others. Hutton has starred in the A&E drama series “A Nero Wolfe Mystery” (2000–2002) as Archie Goodwin and in TNT’s “Leverage” (2008–2012) as Nathan “Nate” Ford. His feature film directorial efforts include “Digging to China” (1997). Hutton made his Broadway debut in 1989 with “Love Letters” and has over 70 film, TV, and stage appearances.
Photo credit: Heidi Hutton.