Show summary Hide summary
Andrew Garfield admitted he felt intimidated working alongside Robert Redford on the 2007 drama Lions for Lambs, sharing candid memories of the experience on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast. His recollections mix awe, nerves and a touch of frustration as he reflects on the legend who directed and starred in the film.
Garfield opens up about being starstruck on set
Talking with Amy Poehler, Garfield described arriving on set as a young actor eager but shaken by Redford’s presence. He said the admiration was immediate and intense, leaving him wide-eyed and anxious during their first meetings.
Taylor Swift: are we over her now that her love story is complete?
Jaime King and Austin Sosa divorced after secret whirlwind marriage: split leaves them blindsided
Garfield used words like “terrified” and “nervous” to convey how surreal it felt to act opposite a Hollywood icon.
The late arrival that tested his composure
What shifted Garfield’s emotions was timing. He recalled a day when Redford arrived hours after call time. The delay rattled him.
- Four hours late: Garfield said Redford showed up well past the scheduled start.
- Initial anger gave way to perspective as Garfield processed the moment.
- He framed the behavior as part of Redford’s persona rather than disrespect.
Despite the annoyance, Garfield acknowledged that his earlier jitters had eased by that point.
How Redford directed and collaborated on scenes
Redford wore multiple hats on Lions for Lambs, directing the picture while also acting in scenes with Garfield. The younger actor noticed a particular rhythm to Redford’s approach.
Garfield explained that Redford often filmed his own coverage first. After a take, the director-actor would turn to Garfield and invite feedback, creating an unusually collaborative environment.
On-set dynamics
- Redford would shoot his portion, then consult Garfield.
- Garfield frequently responded with encouragement and trust.
- The exchange blurred the usual actor-director divide.
What Lions for Lambs explores
Lions for Lambs weaves together three stories: soldiers in Afghanistan, a U.S. senator, a journalist and a college professor. The film examines responsibility, media and the consequences of political choices.
- Genre: American war drama
- Central themes: leadership, accountability, public debate
- Garfield and Redford shared multiple scenes that drove the film’s moral questions.
Redford’s legacy and final days
Robert Redford died in September. His spokesperson told Page Six the actor passed away at his Sundance home, surrounded by family.
- Date of death: September 16, 2025
- Place: His home in the mountains of Utah
- Family requested privacy as they grieved.
Though Redford’s death was peaceful, an official cause had not been released at the time of the announcement. Garfield’s reflections join a chorus of tributes that highlight Redford’s impact as an actor, director and cultural figure.
