Burt Reynolds, the beloved Hollywood star known for his iconic roles in films like Deliverance and Smokey and the Bandit, reportedly faced a setback in his career due to the decisions made by Donald Trump. While Reynolds thrived in the entertainment industry during the 1970s and 1980s, his involvement in professional football, specifically as part-owner of the USFL’s Tampa Bay Bandits, took a turn for the worse when Trump, who was the majority owner of the USFL, attempted to merge the league with the NFL.
Reynolds initially embraced his role with the Bandits, contributing to the team’s marketing success and helping gain a loyal following that sometimes surpassed that of the local NFL team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, Trump’s aggressive strategy, including a lawsuit against the NFL, led to catastrophic repercussions for the league. This ultimately resulted in the USFL folding, along with the Bandits.
In a reflective 2018 interview, Reynolds stated, “What took us down was Trump because he tried to take us up against the NFL, and that is the toughest group of people to go up against anywhere. I begged him not to do it, but he’s a rather stubborn man, and it was the finish of our group.” Despite Trump’s role in this downfall, Reynolds chose not to hold a grudge against his old friend and even made a visit to him in the Oval Office during his presidency.
In sharing his thoughts about past encounters with U.S. presidents, Reynolds noted that Jimmy Carter left a lasting impression on him, describing him as someone with “humanity” and a “sweet” nature. While Reynolds voiced concerns about Trump’s decisions, it’s evident that their friendship endured, reflecting the complexities of personal relationships amid professional setbacks.
This glimpse into Reynolds’ experiences serves as a reminder of how intertwined personal and professional lives can be, especially in the competitive world of celebrity and sports. Despite the challenges he faced, Reynolds managed to maintain his charm and connection with those around him.