BREAKING: Burt Reynolds Has Died At Age 82

Rest in peace, Burt Reynolds. The iconic actor has died at age 82, Us Weekly confirmed on Thursday, Sept. 6. The Smokey and the Bandit star passed away after going into cardiac arrest at a Jupiter, FL hospital with his family by his side, a source revealed to the news outlet. 

Fans have been concerned about Burt’s health in recent years after he stepped out looking unrecognizable on multiple occasions even though his manager recent claimed it’s been “perfect.” Years ago, Burt broke his jaw and lost 30 pounds by not eating and reportedly became addicted to painkillers for several years. In May 2009, he underwent back surgery and in February 2010 had a quintuple heart bypass.

However, Burt never wanted sympathy from anyone through all his ups and downs. “Burt is one of the last of his era — a genuine tough guy,” an insider once told Closer. “The last thing he would ever want is for people to feel sorry for him.”

A friend of his added at the time, “As long as his body is willing, he wants to continue acting until the day he dies. Burt believes, despite his aches and pains, he still has a lot of living left to do.”

Despite all of his health concerns, though, Burt has always been positive, and once revealed to Closer Weekly how happy he was to have made it to his 80s. “I’m happy… because the alternative is pretty grim!” he said in February 2016. “I don’t feel my age. It’s just a number.” 

Burt was known for his roles in Gunsmoke, Hawk, Dan August, Deliverance, Boogie Nights, Striptease, and The Longest Yard. However, he has nearly 200 film and TV credits to date. 

He was married to Judy Carne from 1963 until 1965 and to Loni Anderson from 1988 until 1994, with whom he shares a 30-year-old son Quinton. He was also famously known for his romance with actress Sally Field. 

We’ll miss you, Burt! We’re keeping Burt’s family and friends in our thoughts during this difficult time.