Burt Reynolds

ABOUT Burt Reynolds was an iconic American actor, director, and producer, celebrated for his charisma, rugged looks, and distinctive charm. He became one of the most popular and highest-grossing actors of the 1970s and 1980s, known for his roles in films such as "Deliverance," "The Longest Yard," "Smokey and the Bandit," and "Boogie Nights," the latter of which earned him an Academy Award nomination. His career spanned over six decades, during which he appeared in numerous movies and television series, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood and popular culture.

BEFORE FAME Born Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. on February 11, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, he was the son of Harriet Fernette and Burton Milo Reynolds Sr. Before venturing into acting, Reynolds had a promising athletic career and attended Florida State University on a football scholarship. However, a knee injury and subsequent car accident ended his dreams of playing professional sports. Encouraged by a teacher to pursue acting, Reynolds moved to New York and studied at the prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. He made his stage debut in 1956 and gradually transitioned to television and film.

TRIVIA Reynolds' breakout role came with the 1972 thriller "Deliverance," which established him as a leading man in Hollywood. Interestingly, he famously posed nude for Cosmo magazine in 1972, which became a cultural milestone and helped shift perceptions about masculinity and celebrity. Despite numerous box office hits, Reynolds also faced career setbacks and financial troubles, including a well-publicized bankruptcy in the 1990s. Nonetheless, he remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. In addition to acting, he opened the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre, fostering new talent and contributing to the arts community.

FAMILY LIFE Throughout his life, Reynolds had several high-profile relationships. He was married twice; first to actress Judy Carne from 1963 to 1965, and then to TV star Loni Anderson from 1988 to 1993, with whom he adopted a son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds. His relationship history also included notable romances with celebrities such as Dinah Shore, Sally Field, and Pam Seals. Reynolds often spoke fondly of his family and cherished his father-son relationship with Quinton, despite facing personal challenges and the demands of his career.

ASSOCIATED WITH Reynolds worked with a slew of Hollywood's elite throughout his career. Particularly, his collaborations with director Hal Needham yielded some of his most memorable films, including the "Smokey and the Bandit" series. He also starred alongside prominent actors such as Jon Voight in "Deliverance," Sally Field in several movies, including "Smokey and the Bandit," and Mark Wahlberg in "Boogie Nights." Beyond his on-screen associations, Reynolds held a lifelong admiration for classic film icons such as Spencer Tracy and admired contemporary directors like Paul Thomas Anderson, who directed him in "Boogie Nights."

Burt Reynolds passed away on September 6, 2018, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of cinematic achievements and a reputation as one of Hollywood's quintessential leading men. His contributions to film and television continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.