Brad Pitt recently shared his emotional memories of rehearsing with Burt Reynolds before the actor’s passing in 2018, highlighting a meaningful chapter in his career. In Jay Glennie’s book, The Making of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Pitt expressed how profoundly those moments with the Hollywood icon affected him, demonstrating the lasting impact of the experience.
“To spend time with Burt Reynolds over those days was just f—— everything, man,”
Pitt said.
“He was the guy, and there will never be anybody like him.”
The Oscar-winning star described the experience as among the most significant in his work, adding,
“It was one of the greatest moments I have ever had in this industry. To work with him, even briefly, was something I’ll never forget.”
The Final Rehearsals Burt Reynolds Completed Before His Death
Burt Reynolds, who died in September 2018 at age 82, was originally cast as George Spahn in Quentin Tarantino’s 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The role of Spahn, an elderly ranch owner, is central to the movie’s depiction of the Spahn Movie Ranch, a location closely linked to the Manson Family.
Though Reynolds passed away before filming his scenes, he participated in several rehearsals alongside Brad Pitt and Dakota Fanning. These sessions became some of his last performances, leaving a poignant mark on those involved.
Quentin Tarantino Remembers Reynolds’ Last Acting Role
Director Quentin Tarantino recounted the emotional significance of Reynolds’ final moments on set.
“The last performance Burt Reynolds ever gave was saying my lines when Brad acted with him, with me directing during our rehearsal,”
Tarantino reflected.
“It was the last role Burt ever did.”
Tarantino described the moment shared with Pitt and Reynolds as exceptionally meaningful, emphasizing its unique place in the production.
“To put the cherry on top of this entire poignant episode involving myself and Burt Reynolds and his involvement with ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,’ that moment with Brad was truly special,”
he said.
After Reynolds passed away, the role was recast, with Bruce Dern stepping in.
Celebrating the Enduring Legacy of Burt Reynolds
Spanning nearly sixty years, Burt Reynolds’ career included memorable performances in films such as Deliverance, Smokey and the Bandit, and Boogie Nights. His charisma, quick humor, and bold presence cemented him as a cherished figure in Hollywood.
Brad Pitt commented on Reynolds’ unique aura, saying,
“He walked into a room, and everyone lit up. You just wanted to be around him.”
Quentin Tarantino also paid tribute to the star’s timeless charisma.
“He brought an old-school sense of showmanship,”
Tarantino said.
“He was funny, warm, and incredibly sharp. Everyone who met him felt lucky.”
The book The Making of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood offers fans intimate stories, rare images, and sincere tributes from the film’s cast and crew, preserving both the movie’s creation and Burt Reynolds’ lasting influence on the industry.
