The iconic spy role that Burt Reynolds regrets skipping

During his illustrious career, Reynolds – who passed away at the age of 82 in 2018 – has conquered widescreen audiences with roles in classic films such as “Deliverance,” “The Longest Yard,” “City Heat,” “Smokey and the Bandit,” and “Cannonball Run.” The latter two films were so popular that Reynolds reprized his role for their sequels.

But before Reynolds landed the lead role in the dark adventure thriller “Deliverance” in 1972, he said he was offered the chance to play Bond after Lazenby left the role after one turn. . Despite being offered a contract for more Bond films, Lazenby’s agent, Ronan O’Rahilly, convinced the actor to decline (via Guardians).

Surprisingly, Reynolds followed suit and said no to the role. Recounts career highlights and regrets from promoting his memoir “But Enough About Me” on “Good Morning America” in 2015, Reynolds lamented the decision. “I think I might have done well,” he said. “In my stupidity, I said, ‘An American can’t play James Bond, it has to be an Englishman – Bond, James Bond. No, I can’t do it.” Professor.” Reynolds continued: “Yes, I can.”

Rejecting 007 isn’t the only unfortunate career decision Reynolds has discussed publicly. Despite receiving his first and only Oscar nomination for his performance in the film, Reynolds said he I regret saying yes as adult film director Jack Horner in “Boogie Nights”. Before, Reynolds said he refused Writer and director George Lucas offered to play Han Solo in “Star Wars”.