Robert Redford’s Low-Key Comeback: Why the 88-Year-Old Icon Chose Now to Step Back Into the Spotlight

Robert Redford is tired of hearing rumors that he’s got one foot in the grave — so the 88-year-old The Way We Were actor has launched a “revenge comeback” after six years off the Hollywood grid!

The reclusive superstar shocked viewers when he turned up last month on the season premiere of AMC’s hit thriller Dark Winds in a move he had shrouded in secrecy.

“Bob’s out to prove that rumors of his demise have been greatly exaggerated,” jokes a source close to the star.

Redford and Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin, both exec producers of the series, made a surprise cameo playing chess-playing cellmates.

It was the first acting gig for the Sundance Kid since the 2019 blockbuster Avengers: Endgame — and he no longer even attends the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, which he founded in 1981.

“Robert wanted the Dark Winds appearance to be a fun surprise for his fans, and although the crew was buzzing about it, he demanded a closed set and that everyone keep their lips sealed!” mumbles a mole.

A pal says Redford relished his return to acting — while putting to rest rumors about his health in the process!

“Bob has laid so low in recent years, there were whispers he was seriously ill or even dying,” pipes the pal.

“He wanted to pull the rug out from under them with this surprise appearance AND show that he looks and feels great for his age. He keeping people guessing!”