Burt Reynolds was an American actor, best known for his roles in Smokey and the Bandit, Deliverance, and The Longest Yard. He was a popular figure in 1970s and 1980s cinema and became a cultural icon as a rugged action star and a charming leading man.
Personal and Family Life
Burt Reynolds was born on February 11, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, to Burton Milo Reynolds and Fern H. Miller. The family moved to Riviera Beach, Florida, after World War II, where his father worked as a police chief. Reynolds was an exceptional athlete and played football at Florida State University until injuries ended his sports career. He later pursued acting, working in theater and television after moving to New York.
Career Highlights
Reynolds began his career in 1960s television, appearing in shows like Gunsmoke and Riverboat. He gained fame with films such as Deliverance and Smokey and the Bandit, becoming a box office superstar. His charismatic performances and iconic mustache made him a beloved figure. Throughout his career, he faced ups and downs but consistently adapted to changes in the film industry.
Death and Legacy
Burt Reynolds passed away on September 6, 2018, due to cardiac arrest in Jupiter, Florida, at the age of 82. His legacy as a Hollywood icon endures, remembered not only for his acting talent but also for his impact on American cinema. He left behind a rich body of work that includes both film and television, and he remains a significant influence on actors today.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Bean | 1997-07-03 | General Newton |
| Smokey and the Bandit | 1977-05-26 | Bo ‘Bandit’ Darville |
| Deliverance | 1972-08-18 | Lewis Medlock |
| The Longest Yard | 1974-08-21 | Paul Crewe |
| Boogie Nights | 1997-10-07 | Jack Horner |
| Sharky’s Machine | 1981-12-18 | Tom Sharky |
| The Cannonball Run | 1981-06-19 | J.J. McClure |
| Evening Shade | 1990-09-21 | Wood Newton |