Let’s talk about a Hollywood legend making a rare return to the screen. Robert Redford, at the ripe age of 88, stepped back into the spotlight for a cameo role in the season 3 premiere of the hit AMC series Dark Winds. This marked his first acting appearance in six years, and it was nothing short of iconic. Fans of the show—and fans of Redford—were thrilled to see the veteran actor back in action.

Redford Reunites with George R.R. Martin for 'Dark Winds'

Now, here’s the backstory: Robert Redford isn’t just a star of the show—he’s also an executive producer, alongside none other than George R.R. Martin, the genius behind Game of Thrones. Together, they’ve brought this gripping crime drama to life. On Sunday, March 9, Redford made his much-anticipated return in a scene that left fans buzzing. The timing couldn’t have been better for this highly anticipated season premiere.

A Chess Game with a Twist

So, what exactly did Redford do in this episode? Well, he played a prisoner engaged in a tense game of chess with George R.R. Martin’s character, aptly named George. Enter Zahn McClarnon, who portrayed Navajo Tribal Police Officer Joe Leaphorn. In a clever twist, Leaphorn steps in and helps George secure the checkmate. After the move, Redford’s character looks up at Leaphorn with a smirk and says, “Thanks a lot.” Classic Redford wit right there.

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Behind the Scenes: The Making of the Cameo

Directing this unforgettable scene was Chris Eyre, who revealed to Vulture that a Redford cameo had been in the works for quite some time. Initially, there were plans for him to appear in the season 2 finale, but they decided to save the moment for the season 3 premiere. Chris admitted, “I never thought I’d be in a position where I’d know Robert Redford, let alone direct a scene with him.”

Zahn McClarnon echoed Chris’s sentiments, saying, “I can’t believe I’m sharing a scene with Robert Redford. It’s an honor.” Clearly, everyone involved felt the weight of working alongside such a legendary figure.

Robert Redford 88 Makes Rare Acting Appearance After Hiatus — AMC/YouTube

Dark Winds follows the thrilling adventures of Navajo Tribal Police officers Joe Leaphorn, Jim Chee, and Bernadette Manuelito as they tackle a string of violent crimes in the 1970s. The series is a gripping mix of mystery, action, and cultural exploration, set against the stunning backdrop of the Navajo Nation.

Redford’s Last On-Screen Appearance

For those keeping track, Robert Redford’s last screen appearance before this was in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, where he reprised his role as Alexander Pierce. However, Redford himself announced that his starring role in 2018’s The Old Man & The Gun would likely be his final performance. That said, he hasn’t completely stepped away from the spotlight, lending his voice to projects like Omniboat: A Fast Boat Fantasia and narrating his wife Sibylle Szaggars Redford’s performance art piece, The Way of the Rain – Hope for Earth.

Chris Eyre’s Take on Directing Redford

Chris Eyre opened up about the experience of directing Redford, admitting it was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. “I’ve known Bob for decades, but sitting there thinking, ‘I’m going to direct Robert Redford,’ struck fear into me,” he told Vulture. Despite his nerves, Chris praised Redford’s kindness and professionalism on set.

And let’s not forget the fun backstory Chris came up with for Redford and Martin’s characters. According to him, they were roustabouts who got into trouble in a nearby town, were arrested, and eventually picked up by one of Leaphorn’s deputies. “They never asked me for it,” Chris joked, “but I was ready!”