- One of Hollywood's most iconic couples, Burt Reynolds and Sally Field left a lasting mark in the entertainment industry.
- Unfortunately, their love story didn't prove enduring, and after calling it quits, the pair didn't speak for 30 years.
- Despite Burt Reynolds admitting he still missed his former lady love decades later, Sally Field never attended his funeral.
Sally Field and Burt Reynolds' love story is one of the most memorable and tumultuous romances in Hollywood history. Despite never marrying officially, their on-and-off five-year relationship remains an iconic chapter in showbiz.
Their journey together began when they first crossed paths on the set of "Smokey and the Bandit" in 1977. Reynolds' charm and talent instantly captivated Field, making him a significant influence in her life.
Actor Burt Reynolds and actress Sally Field in August 1977 | Source: Getty Images
Throughout their romance, Field and Reynolds starred in several films together, such as "The End," "Hooper," and "Smokey and the Bandit II," showcasing their incredible chemistry both on and off-screen. They were considered a power couple, united by a shared sense of humor and an undeniable connection.
In his memoir, "But Enough About Me," Reynolds candidly revealed one of his biggest regrets was not being able to make their relationship work.
However, behind the scenes, their relationship faced challenges, with Reynolds' reported restlessness and self-destructive tendencies putting strain on their love.
Actors Burt Reynolds and Sally Field in the film "Smokey and the Bandit," circa 1977 | Source: Getty Images
As their careers soared, tensions grew, and Field's rising star was said to have caused resentment and competitiveness from Reynolds. Eventually, the strain became too much, leading to their split in 1982.
Although both moved on with their lives, fans speculated about a possible reconciliation. Before Reynolds' passing, there seemed to be a hope for reconnection, but fate had other plans.
Their love story left a lasting impact, and even in interviews, both Field and Reynolds reflected on their time together with mixed emotions. Field acknowledged that their relationship was intense but sometimes felt like a "preformed rut." Meanwhile, Reynolds took responsibility for their breakup, acknowledging his foolish mistakes.
Despite the challenges and complexities, their love story continues to be remembered as one of Hollywood's most passionate and enthralling relationships.
Burt Reynolds is pictured on "The Merv Griffin Show," circa 1978 | Source: Getty Images
What Burt Reynolds Said about Sally Field & Why They Didn't Speak for 30 Years?
Before his passing, the "Deliverance" actor openly expressed his feelings for Field, and even after his death, he carried a lasting flame for his lost love. Their romance, which began on the set of a 1977 film, resulted in a swift and passionate affair that lasted for almost half a decade.
However, despite his romantic history with Field, she chose not to attend his funeral.
In a revealing interview in 2015, Reynolds called his former co-star "the love of my life," reflecting the depth of their connection. Their relationship, however, faced its fair share of challenges, and they eventually went their separate ways, leaving a lingering sense of what might have been.
In his memoir, "But Enough About Me," Reynolds candidly revealed one of his biggest regrets was not being able to make their relationship work. He genuinely adored the Oscar-winning actress, calling their relationship "real" and emphasizing her unique place in his heart.
Sally Field is pictured on "The Merv Griffin Show" circa 1978 | Source: Getty Images
The "Boogie Nights" alum recounted how Field's mother once warned him that he might break her heart, to which he assured her that he never intended to do so.
However, after their breakup, Field and Reynolds drifted apart, and for about 30 years, they reportedly didn't say a word to each other. In an exclusive interview, the "Forrest Gump" star disclosed that being around her former beau was not a positive experience for her.
Field mentioned that Reynolds had a distorted view of their relationship and falsely believed she held greater importance to him than she actually did. This led to a strained dynamic between them, and ultimately, the "Mrs. Doubtfire" actress chose to distance herself from him and the complexities that came with it.
A portrait of Burt Reynolds, circa 1960 | Source: Getty Images
Sally Field's Words for Burt Reynolds after His Demise
On September 6, 2018, Reynolds passed away from cardiac arrest, aged 82. However, despite his romantic history with Field, she chose not to attend his funeral. Instead, she shared a heartwarming statement about him, reacting with deep emotions. The "Steel Magnolias" actress expressed:
"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."
Actor Burt Reynolds at TCL Chinese Theatre on April 27, 2013, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Actor Burt Reynolds at Cinepolis Chelsea on April 22, 2017, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
In an interview in November 2015, Reynolds openly shared his fondness and longing for Field, saying, "I do miss her. I think she was one of the most underrated actresses, you know? She was the best actress I ever worked with."
During the '80s, the "Gator" actor faced a difficult period, dealing with rumors suggesting he was dying of AIDS due to significant weight loss caused by an addiction to prescription painkillers following a jaw injury. To combat the rumors, he focused on work, trying to dispel the speculation surrounding his health.
Sally Field at Fairmont Century Plaza on February 26, 2023, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Following Reynolds' death, Field released her memoir, "In Pieces," which delved into their relationship. The "Sybil" star admitted that she was relieved Reynolds would never read her candid words, as she didn't want to hurt him any further. To this day, Field remains grateful for their time together despite their relationship not working out.
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