Burt Reynolds and Sally Field were once two of the biggest stars in Hollywood. Their on-screen chemistry in films like “Smokey and the Bandit” captivated audiences, and many believed that their love was just as real off-screen. However, in a recent interview, Field revealed that Reynolds had “created” her as the love of his life, when in reality, their relationship was far from perfect.

Reynolds, who passed away in 2018, had spoken about his love for Field in a 2015 interview. He expressed regret for not being able to make their romance work, suggesting that Field was the love of his life. However, according to Field, their relationship was not what it seemed.

In her memoir, “In Pieces,” released shortly after Reynolds’ death, Field detailed their complicated relationship. She revealed that Reynolds was not someone she could be around, and that he was not the right match for her. Field felt that Reynolds had invented a version of her in his mind, one that was more important to him than she actually was.

Field also opened up about Reynolds’ drug use during the filming of “Smokey and the Bandit,” where he relied on pills like Percodan, Valium, and barbiturates. She described him as dominating and abusive, shedding light on the darker side of their relationship.

Their five-year relationship was an attempt for Field to recreate the dynamic she had with her stepfather, who she claimed physically assaulted her during her childhood. In her memoir, Field admitted that she was trying to exorcize her past through her relationship with Reynolds.

Despite their tumultuous relationship, Field delivered a moving speech following Reynolds’ death. However, she did not attend his funeral, suggesting that their connection was complex and difficult to define.

Field’s career in Hollywood spanned decades, and she faced both triumphs and challenges along the way. She rose to fame with television roles in “Gidget” and “The Flying Nun,” but she longed for more substantial roles in movies.

Reflecting on her time as “The Flying Nun,” Field once said, “It was a job.” She struggled to find roles that would allow her to showcase her acting abilities and desired to break free from the constraints of her early success.

Throughout her career, Field dealt with both gender pay disparities and sexual harassment. She spoke openly about the challenges she faced and the sacrifices she had to make. Field never had the luxury of holding out for more money; she simply needed to make a living and was willing to take any opportunity that came her way.

Despite the hardships, Field’s talent eventually shone through. She won two Academy Awards, one for her performance in “Norma Rae” in 1979 and another for “Places in the Heart” in 1984. These awards validated her abilities as an actress and served as a testament to her resilience and determination.

In her current project, Field is collaborating with fellow actresses Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Rita Moreno on the road trip film “80 for Brady.” At 75 years old, Field continues to challenge herself and push the boundaries of her career.

Field’s journey in Hollywood has not been easy, but she remains steadfast and determined. She has learned to navigate both the highs and lows of the industry, embracing the notion that perseverance is key. Her experiences, both positive and negative, have shaped her into a stronger individual and a formidable presence in the entertainment world.

Burt Reynolds may have claimed that Sally Field was the love of his life, but as Field herself has revealed, their relationship was far from ideal. Their love story was one filled with complexities and hardships, ultimately leading to a connection that could not be easily defined. Sally Field’s memoir sheds light on the truth behind their romance and serves as a reminder that not all love stories have a fairytale ending.