New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has issued a statement following the death of actor and filmmaker Robert Redford, acknowledging his contributions to the state’s culture and film industry.
“I join all New Mexicans in mourning the loss of Robert Redford, whose deep connection to our state left an indelible mark on its cultural and environmental landscape,” Lujan Grisham said.
Redford’s 1988 film “The Milagro Beanfield War” was filmed in Truchas, New Mexico. The governor noted that the movie “captured the heart of New Mexico’s rural Hispanic communities with authentic dignity.” She also highlighted his role as executive producer for AMC’s “Dark Winds” television series, which is set in New Mexico, saying Redford “similarly captured New Mexico’s culture in an authentic manner.” In 2010, he started a workshop at Los Luceros in Espanola aimed at training Hispanic and Native American filmmakers.
Lujan Grisham credited Redford with promoting the state’s film tax credit program. According to her statement, his efforts helped promote New Mexico's natural scenery and workforce within the film industry. This advocacy played a role in positioning New Mexico as a significant destination for filmmaking projects and generating economic benefits across local communities.
Redford was described as both a part-time Santa Fe resident and an environmental advocate. The governor stated that he “understood that New Mexico’s natural beauty required protection” and aligned himself with local conservation values.
She added that Redford helped bring attention to New Mexican voices on a national level by using his platform to share stories from the region.
“His legacy endures in every film that honors New Mexico’s stories, in his conservation work that protects our landscapes, and in the tradition of artists who understand that great art serves both beauty and truth,” Lujan Grisham said. “Robert Redford will be remembered as an artist, activist, and friend to New Mexico.”
