A Complete Timeline of Burt Reynolds’ Love Life

Burt Reynolds met Sally Field while filming Smokey and the Bandit in 1976. He was at the height of his powers — confident, dominant, and widely adored. Sally, though already accomplished, was emerging from years of being underestimated, determined to be taken seriously as an actress.

Their connection formed quickly but without spectacle. On set, they worked easily, instinctively. Burt was playful and protective. Sally was focused and quietly strong. What began as chemistry soon turned into something unmistakably personal.