Sally Field's First Date Jitters with Burt Reynolds

Actress Sally Field recently reflected on her historic relationship with Burt Reynolds during an appearance on TCM's "Talking Pictures" podcast. Field, a two-time Oscar winner, confessed to experiencing significant nerves on her first date with Reynolds, with whom she would star in four films. She recalled being surprised that Reynolds called her for "Smokey and the Bandit," as he admitted the script was poor and he hadn't seen her dramatic role in "Sybil." Reynolds, however, had seen her earlier work in "Gidget" and liked her from that.

Field described her initial nervousness, stating she hadn't had many dates due to her early start in television. She vividly remembered their first encounter, feeling like a "fool" and a "clown." The couple dated from 1976 to 1980, starring together in "Smokey and the Bandit," "Hooper," "The End," and "Smokey and the Bandit II." Field noted Reynolds' complicated nature, likening him to her stepfather. She also revealed a past conflict where Reynolds opposed her role in "Norma Rae," criticizing her character's sexual past and attempting to control her career choices.