Jack Nicholson won an Oscar for his part in Terms of Endearment, and Burt also said he had been the first choice to play the main character in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, another Oscar-winner for Jack. I’ll never forget how much that meant to me.”īurt was also famous for many high profile movies which he didn’t end up starring in, having notably turned down the roles of Han Solo, Garrett Breedlove in Terms of Endearment, and John McLaine in Die Hard. “He took me under his wing when I was first starting out as an actor and offered friendship, advice and guidance. "My family and I appreciate the outpouring of love for my uncle, and I ask that everyone please respect our family’s privacy at this very difficult time."Īctor Paul Wesley also paid tribute, saying: “Burt Reynolds was one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever worked with. "I want to thank all of his amazing fans who have always supported and cheered him on, through all of the hills and valleys of his life and career.
"So many people have already contacted me, to tell me how they benefitted professionally and personally from my uncles kindness. My uncle was looking forward to working with Quentin Tarantino, and the amazing cast that was assembled.
#Burt reynolds smokey and the bandit outfit movie
Anyone who breaks their tail bone on a river and finishes the movie is tough. "He has had health issues, however, this was totally unexpected. "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 said: “No comment, just heartbreaking.”īurt's niece Nancy Lee Hess told .uk: "It is with a broken heart that I said goodbye to my uncle today.