Burt Reynolds was an American film and television superstar, achieved fame through decades of powerful performances and undeniable charisma. Beginning his career with television roles in the 1950s, he shot to fame with Deliverance in 1972, followed by a string of hits that cemented his status as a Hollywood heavyweight. Reynolds played leading roles in financial successes such as White Lightning, The Longest Yard, Smokey and the Bandit (which started a six-year box-office reign), Semi-Tough, The End, Hooper, Starting Over, Smokey and the Bandit II, The Cannonball Run, Sharky’s Machine, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and Cannonball Run II, several of which he directed. Known for his versatility, Reynolds effortlessly transitioned between comedy, drama, and action.
Birthday / Date of Birth
He was born on the 11th of February 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, United States of America.
| Birth Name | Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. |
| Nickname | Buddy |
| Date of Birth | 11th of February 1936 |
| Place of Birth | Lansing, Michigan, United States of America |
| Died | 6th of February 2018 (aged 82), in Jupiter, Florida, United States of America |
| Sun Sign | Aquarius |
| Profession | Actor |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Religion | Christianity |
Education
Reynolds began his education at Palm Beach High School, excelling in athletics and academics. He later attended Florida State University on a football scholarship, but injuries ended his athletic ambitions.
Family Details
- Father – Burton Milo Reynolds Sr. (Police Chief)
- Mother – Harriet Fernette “Fern” (née Miller) (Homemaker)
- Siblings – Nancy Ann Reynolds (Sister)
Marital Status
Married
Girlfriend / Spouse
Burt Reynolds has dated –
- Judy Carne
- Dinah Shore (1971-1975)
- Sally Field (1976-1980) he had a relationship (then off-and-on until 1982) with American actress Sally Field, during which time they appeared together in four films. In 2016, he regarded Field as the love of his life.
- Loni Anderson (1988-1994)
Physical Statistics
| Height |
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| Weight |
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| Body Measurements |
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| Body Build | Slim |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Shoe Size | 11 (US) |
| Dress Size | N/A |
| Sexuality | Straight |
Professional Statistics
Famous For
Burt gained fame as one of the leading actors of his generation, celebrated for his dynamic performances across action, comedy, and drama. His breakout role in Deliverance established him as a serious actor, while Smokey and the Bandit turned him into a pop culture phenomenon. He was also acclaimed for his Oscar-nominated role in Boogie Nights (1997), which marked a stunning comeback later in his career. Known for his natural charisma, trademark mustache, and on-screen swagger, Reynolds became a true Hollywood legend whose influence continues to inspire actors today.
Television Debut
In 1958, Reynolds landed his first role in television on the popular anthology series, Gunsmoke. Over the next several years, Reynolds secured recurring roles in shows such as Riverboat and Hawk, steadily building his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.
Film Debut
In 1959, Burt made his film debut with the movie Angel Baby, where he played a small but impactful role that hinted at his future star potential. In the early 1970s, His breakthrough eventually came leading to major roles that would define his career and secure his place as one of Hollywood’s most beloved leading men.
Burt Reynolds Net worth
Burt Reynolds has an estimated net worth of $60 million dollars as of 2025.
Some Lesser Known Facts About Burt Reynolds
- Reynolds Jr. was born to Harriette Fernette “Fern” (Miller) and Burton Milo Reynolds, who was in the army.
- After World War II, his family moved to Riviera Beach, Florida, where his father was chief of police, and where Burt excelled as an athlete and played with Florida State University.
- Burt initially considered a career in professional football before an injury shifted his path to acting.
- During the late 1950s, Reynolds began acting for television with guest roles on shows such as Flight, M Squad, Schlitz Playhouse, The Lawless Years, and Pony Express. He signed a seven-year contract with Universal Studios.
- Reynolds was considered for the role of Sonny Corleone in The Godfather, but Francis Ford Coppola’s desire to cast James Caan in the part prevailed.
- He starred in over 70 films, spanning action, comedy, and drama genres. Reynolds directed and starred in several films, including Gator (1976) and The End (1978).
- He co-authored the 1997 children’s book, Barkley Unleashed: A Pirate’s Tail, a “whimsical tale [that] illustrates the importance of perseverance, the wonders of friendship and the power of imagination”.
- Reynolds’s performance as high-minded pornographer Jack Horner in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Boogie Nights (1997) brought him renewed critical attention, earning the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture, with nominations for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor.
- His enduring career earned him Golden Globe Awards, critical acclaim, and a place among Hollywood’s most memorable icons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Burt Reynolds?
He was an award-winning actor and cultural icon, gained worldwide fame for his performances in films like Deliverance and The Longest Yard, leaving an unforgettable mark on cinema.
What is the real name of Burt Reynolds?
His real name is Melvin Lee Greenwood.
What is the age of Burt Reynolds?
He is 82 years old (27th of October 1942).
What is Burt Reynolds Height?
The Height of Reynolds is 1.80 m (5′11”).
What is Burt Reynolds Weight?
The Weight of Burt is 77 kg (170 lbs).
What is the Net worth of Burt Reynolds?
He has an estimated net worth of $60 million dollars as of 2025.
Why is Burt Reynolds Famous?
He is well known for for his iconic roles in blockbuster films like Smokey and the Bandit, Deliverance, and Boogie Nights, which cemented his status as a Hollywood legend.