Burt Reynolds | February 11, 1936 – September 6, 2018 (Age 82 Years)
➱ OBITUARY
Burt Reynolds, the charismatic actor who became a Hollywood icon with his magnetic presence and unforgettable roles, passed away on September 6, 2018, at the age of 82. He died of a heart attack at Jupiter Medical Center in Jupiter, Florida.
Born Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. on February 11, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, Reynolds grew up in Riviera Beach, Florida. He attended Florida State University on a football scholarship but turned to acting after a knee injury ended his athletic career. This pivotal moment led to a storied career spanning six decades, during which he became one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in entertainment.
Reynolds first gained attention with television roles in "Gunsmoke" and "Dan August," but it was his breakthrough performance in "Deliverance" (1972) that catapulted him to stardom. He solidified his leading man status with a string of hits in the 1970s and 1980s, including "Smokey and the Bandit," "The Longest Yard," "Cannonball Run," and "Boogie Nights," for which he earned an Academy Award nomination.
Known for his rugged charm, signature mustache, and affable on-screen persona, Reynolds captivated audiences with his versatility in both comedy and drama. Beyond his film career, he made significant contributions to television, earning an Emmy Award for his role in the sitcom "Evening Shade."
Despite his professional successes, Reynolds faced personal challenges, including financial difficulties and health issues. Yet, he remained a resilient figure, beloved by fans and respected by peers for his enduring talent and generosity.
Reynolds is survived by his ex-wife, Loni Anderson, and their son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds. A private memorial service was held on September 20, 2018, in North Palm Beach, Florida, attended by close friends and family, including Sally Field, FSU coach Bobby Bowden, friend Lee Corso, and quarterback Doug Flutie. His ashes were given to his niece, Nancy Lee Brown Hess, and on February 11, 2021, he was interred at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. A bronze bust was placed at the cemetery later that year to honor his lasting legacy.
Burt Reynolds leaves behind a rich legacy of film and television work that will continue to entertain and inspire future generations. His contributions to Hollywood and his impact on popular culture remain indelible. He will be remembered not only as a prolific actor but also as a man who brought warmth and joy to countless lives.
➱ Remembering Burt:
- Arnold Schwarzenegger: "Burt Reynolds was one of my heroes. He was a trailblazer," "He showed the way to transition from being an athlete to being the highest-paid actor, and he always inspired me. He also had a great sense of humor...My thoughts are with his family."
- Kevin Smith called Burt "THE movie star of my childhood." "I always loved how Burt Reynolds worked with his friends as often as he could and then showcased the fun of movie-making in the end credits of his flicks," he wrote on Twitter. "He was true American icon. Hate to see him go..."
- Sally Field: "There are times in your life that are so indelible, they never fade away. They stay alive, even forty years later. My years with Burt never leave my mind. He will be in my history and my heart, for as long as I live. Rest, Buddy."
- Dolly Parton: "Oh how sad I am today along with Burt's millions of fans around the world as we mourn one of our favorite leading men. I know we will always remember his funny laugh, that mischievous sparkle in his eyes, and his quirky sense of humor. You will always be my favorite sheriff, rest in peace my little buddy. I will always love you, Dolly."
- Sylvester Stallone: "A sad day, my friend BURT REYNOLDS Has passed away. I remember him back in 1979, he always reminded me that I should've cast him as Colonel Trautman in FIRST BLOOD, I said That's impossible, because you're too expensive and too famous, and probably tougher than Rambo! He laughed, He had a great sense of humor and I enjoyed his company so much... RIP."
See Burt Reynold's Biography: Read More
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Reynolds was a talented athlete, playing as a halfback for the Florida State Seminoles before sustaining an injury that ended his football career.
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