Turned down the role of John McClane in Die Hard (1988). The role went to Bruce Willis.
Underwent back surgery in May 2009.
Underwent quintuple heart bypass surgery in February 2010.
Was director Milos Forman's first choice for the lead in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) but United Artists believed his appeal with average moviegoers might prevent the film from attracting the critical attention they felt was necessary for the film to be a box-office hit. Jack Nicholson was cast instead in the role that won him his first Best Actor Oscar. A decade later, Reynolds was writer-director James L. Brooks' first choice for the role of amorous astronaut "Garrett Breedlove" in Terms of Endearment (1983). This time, Reynolds passed on the project, clearing the way for Nicholson to win his second Oscar, this one for Best Supporting Actor.
Was drafted by the Baltimore Colts.
Was named the #1 top money-making star at the box office in Quigley _Publications' annual poll of movie exhibitors for five consecutive years from 1978 - 1982, equaling the record set by Bing Crosby from 1944 - 1948. Only Tom Cruise, who was named #1 six times between 1986 and 2001, has won more box office crowns. Both Clint Eastwood and Tom Hanks also have been #1 five times, but non-consecutively.
Was seriously involved with actress Inger Stevens shortly before her suicide in 1970. Has to this day respectfully refused to discuss the relationship.
Was the first actor ever asked to guest-host "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" (1962). Prior to Reynolds, only comedians had been invited. His first (?) guest was his ex-wife Judy Carne, whom he hadn't spoken to in over six years after a very bitter divorce.
When Francis Ford Coppola decided to make a project about the life of the famous Preston Tucker, he wanted Burt Reynolds to play Tucker. They discussed a lot about the movie and made plans, but the film never got made, until 1988, this time with Jeff Bridges in the role. Burt Reynolds only got Lewis Medlock's role in Deliverance (1972) after the stars who were originally chosen to play the lead, such as Marlon Brando, Henry Fonda and James Stewart declined the part, after they heard about the risks of the Chattooga River.