Childhood and Education Journey of Burt Reynolds in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 18, 2026

An overview of the childhood and early education of Burt Reynolds, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Burt Reynolds was a prominent American actor who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s. He gained initial recognition through television roles in series like Gunsmoke, Hawk, and Dan August. Reynolds transitioned to leading roles in films, including Navajo Joe and 100 Rifles, before achieving his breakthrough role as Lewis Medlock in the acclaimed film Deliverance.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

February 11, 1936: Birth of Burton Leon Reynolds Jr.

On February 11, 1936, Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. was born. He would later become a famous American actor.

February 11, 1936: Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. was born

On February 11, 1936, Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. was born to Burton Milo Reynolds Sr. and Harriet Fernette "Fern" (née Miller).

1946: Family Relocation to Riviera Beach

In 1946, Reynolds's family relocated to Riviera Beach, Florida, where he began a lifelong close friendship with Dick Howser in sixth grade.

1953: All-State Fullback Recognition

In 1953, at Palm Beach High School, Reynolds was named a first-team All-State fullback and an honorable-mention selection to the 34th annual All-Southern team.

1955: Knee Injury and Car Accident

In 1955, Reynolds suffered torn cartilage in his right knee, leading to him leaving school. Two months later, he was critically injured in an automobile accident, suffering internal injuries, including a ruptured spleen.

1956: Enrollment at Palm Beach Junior College and Acting Debut

In early 1956, Reynolds enrolled at Palm Beach Junior College (PBJC). During his spring term, he enrolled in an English class and was cast in a school play, earning a best actor award at the 1956 PBJC Drama Awards.

October 12, 1957: Departure from Florida State Football

On October 12, 1957, Reynolds was blamed for the team's loss to North Carolina State University, leading him to quit the football team.

1981: Honorary Doctorate from FSU

In 1981, Burt Reynolds was awarded an honorary doctorate from Florida State University.

1984: Injury on City Heat Set

In 1984, while filming City Heat, Burt Reynolds suffered a severe facial injury from a metal chair, leading to temporomandibular joint dysfunction, a liquid diet resulting in 30 pounds weight loss, and subsequent painkiller addiction.

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1989: Role in B.L. Stryker

In 1989, Burt Reynolds hired Michael Chiklis for a role in B.L. Stryker, which Chiklis credits for rescuing his acting career after being "blackballed" for portraying John Belushi in the movie Wired.

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