Sally Field Shocks Fans by Naming Burt Reynolds as Her Worst On-Screen Kiss—Here’s Why!

Sally Field, the celebrated actress known for her powerful performances in films like Forrest Gump and Steel Magnolias, has shared her least favorite on-screen kiss—and it’s quite a shocker. Despite having a long and illustrious career with many memorable romantic scenes, Field recently revealed on an episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen that her worst on-screen kiss was with none other than Burt Reynolds, her co-star in Smokey and the Bandit and real-life boyfriend at the time.

Field, who is now in her seventies, initially hesitated when a fan asked her about her worst on-screen kiss. However, after some encouragement from Cohen, she admitted that the experience with Reynolds wasn’t exactly what fans might expect. She described how the kiss was far from romantic, citing Reynolds’ excessive “drooling” as a reason for her discomfort. This revelation surprised many, considering the palpable chemistry between the two in the movie and their five-year relationship off-screen.

Their relationship, however, was more complicated than it appeared. While they seemed like a perfect match on-screen, their off-screen relationship was fraught with challenges. Field has been candid about her struggles with Reynolds, particularly in the years following their split. In a 2022 interview with Variety, she shared that she had stopped speaking to Reynolds during the last three decades of his life, stating that he “was not someone I could be around.” She elaborated that despite Reynolds’ later reflections on their relationship, she didn’t feel as significant to him as he claimed, describing his behavior as wanting “the thing he didn’t have.”

This complexity in their relationship adds a layer of poignancy to Field’s revelation about their on-screen kiss. While fans may have seen their chemistry as fiery and passionate, Field’s personal experience tells a different story—one where the line between on-screen romance and real-life relationships is blurred, leading to moments that are less than magical.

Field’s career has been marked by a wide range of roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. From her early days in Gidget and The Flying Nun to her more dramatic roles in Norma Rae and Places in the Heart, for which she won two Academy Awards, Field has proven herself as one of Hollywood’s most enduring talents. Her ability to portray deep emotion and complex characters has endeared her to audiences for decades.

Yet, even with such a storied career, it’s moments like her candid admission about her worst on-screen kiss that remind us of the real person behind the characters. Field’s willingness to share the less-than-glamorous side of her Hollywood experiences offers a refreshing contrast to the often idealized image of movie stars. It also highlights the challenges actors face when their personal and professional lives intersect in ways that are not always comfortable.

In addition to her work in film and television, Field has also been open about her personal struggles, including her difficult childhood. Born into a showbiz family in Pasadena, California, Field had a troubled upbringing, which she detailed in her memoir. Despite these challenges, she has become known for her resilience and strength, both on and off the screen.

Field continues to work in the industry, most recently appearing in the 2022 series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty as Jessie Buss. Her ongoing presence in Hollywood is a testament to her enduring talent and dedication to her craft.

As fans reflect on Field’s surprising revelation about her worst on-screen kiss, it serves as a reminder that even the most celebrated actors have their less-than-perfect moments. Whether it’s a drool-filled kiss with a famous co-star or a challenging personal relationship, these experiences are part of what makes Sally Field such a relatable and beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Her story is a fascinating glimpse into the life of a Hollywood icon who has experienced the highs and lows of fame, love, and career with grace and honesty.