Yesterday, we lost a true Hollywood iconic.
Burt Reynolds, star of Deliverance, Boogie Nights and Smokey and the Bandit, passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind a cinematic legacy that is practically unparalleled. He was the undisputed box office king during the late 1970s, starring in the likes of Starting Over and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
That signature Burt Reynolds charm allowed him to become a household name, before scoring an Oscar nomination for his performance as porn director Jack Horner in the Paul Thomas Anderson classic, Boogie Nights. Reynolds ultimately lucked out to Robin Williams, who clinched the industry’s biggest accolade for his role in Good Will Hunting.
Nevertheless, he leaves behind a rich and diverse back catalog, and will be sorely missed by all – including Deadpool 2 star Ryan Reynolds, who took to Twitter to pay tribute for the legendary actor in his own special way, from one Reynolds to another…
He did it first. And best. And naked. #BurtReynolds pic.twitter.com/3HN5XsPXM6
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) September 7, 2018
Ryan Reynolds is the latest in a long line of Hollywood movie stars to share their memories of Burt Reynolds, and while he had been cast in the Quentin Tarantino ensemble drama Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, we understand the late actor hadn’t yet filmed any of his scenes for the star-studded period piece.
The life and legacy of Burt Reynolds is perhaps best summed up by his surviving niece Nancy Lee Hess, who shared an official statement with The Hollywood Reporter:
My uncle was not just a movie icon; he was a generous, passionate, and sensitive man who was dedicated to his family, friends, fans, and acting students. He has had health issues, however, this was totally unexpected. He was tough. Anyone who breaks their tailbone on a river and finishes the movie is tough. And that’s who he was. My uncle was looking forward to working with Quentin Tarantino [in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood] and the amazing cast that was assembled.
Our thoughts go out to Burt Reynolds‘ immediate family and friends who are now mourning the death of a true Hollywood legend.