I Just Discovered A Crazy Connection Between Robert Redford And Universal Studios That Makes Him Even More Impressive

by

Man, I was really bummed to hear about Robert Redford passing away yesterday. He was a true Hollywood legend – seriously, the guy made *so* many incredible movies. It’s been heartwarming seeing everyone share their favorite Redford films and memories online. He really left a mark, you know? It’s like losing a piece of movie history.

It was surprising to see Universal Studios Hollywood mentioned in tributes to Robert Redford, but then I realized it *is* a working film studio where he filmed movies. John Murdy, the creative director for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal, shared a story on Twitter about seeing Redford at the park every day while one of his favorite films was being made. Murdy explained:

I didn’t personally know Robert Redford, but I recall seeing him while he filmed “Sneakers” on the studio lot. Every day during filming, he’d jog up and down the steps of the Starway escalator – it was amazing to watch. He was a true Hollywood icon and will be deeply missed.

If you’ve never been to Universal Studios Hollywood, the Starway is basically the way to get between the upper and lower parts of the park. It’s this huge series of escalators and platforms that lifts you 18 stories! Most people take the escalators, but there *are* stairs if you’re feeling ambitious – 345 steps, to be exact. I always thought Robert Redford was a great actor, but I heard he used to jog up and down the Starway stairs every day, and it’s clear he was in incredible shape!

Most of the hilly land dividing the two sides of Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t suitable for rides or attractions. The new Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster is being built around the Starway because that area is one of the few places where a ride can actually fit.

A few years back, I climbed the Starway stairs just to prove I could. Honestly, if anyone had suggested going back down, I would have been furious. The thought of Robert Redford running up and down those stairs every morning is incredibly impressive to me.

Knowing this story happened while making *Sneakers*, which is one of my all-time favorite Robert Redford and heist movies, makes it even more memorable. He’d complete these preparations and then head to set to work with a fantastic cast on a really enjoyable film.

When I next visit Universal Studios Hollywood and walk the starway, I’ll definitely remember Robert Redford running up those stairs. I might even try walking down them myself someday – probably just once.

Read More

2025-09-17 23:08