
Brad Pitt is looking back on one of the most unforgettable experiences of his career. It’s the time he spent rehearsing with Hollywood icon Burt Reynolds before his death. In Jay Glennieâs new book, The Making of “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”, Pitt recalled how much those days meant to him, as reported by People.
âTo spend time with Burt Reynolds over those days was just f—— everything, man,â Pitt said. âHe was the guy, and there will never be anybody like him.â
The Oscar-winning actor described the experience as one of the most memorable of his career. âIt was one of the greatest moments I have ever had in this industry,â Pitt shared. âTo work with him, even briefly, was something Iâll never forget.â
Reynoldsâ Final Rehearsal Before His Death
Reynolds, who passed away in September 2018 at age 82, was initially cast as George Spahn in Quentin Tarantinoâs 2019 film âOnce Upon a Time in Hollywood.â
The character, an aging ranch owner, plays a pivotal role in the story when Pittâs stuntman character, Cliff Booth, visits the Spahn Movie Ranch, a key location tied to the Manson Family.
Although Reynolds died before he could film his scenes, he took part in several rehearsals alongside Pitt and Dakota Fanning. One of those sessions would become his final performance, a moment that now holds deep emotional meaning for everyone who witnessed it.
Quentin Tarantino Recalls Reynoldsâ Last Role
Tarantino, 62, reflected emotionally on Reynoldsâ final moments on set. âThe last performance Burt Reynolds ever gave was saying my lines when Brad acted with him, with me directing during our rehearsal,â he shared in the book. âIt was the last role Burt ever did.â
The director said the experience left an indelible mark on the cast and crew. âTo put the cherry on top of this entire poignant episode involving myself and Burt Reynolds and his involvement with âOnce Upon a Time in Hollywood,â that moment with Brad was truly special,â he said.
After Reynoldsâ death, Tarantino recast the role with veteran actor Bruce Dern.
Remembering a Hollywood Legend
Reynoldsâ legendary career spanned nearly six decades, with iconic roles in films like âDeliverance,â âSmokey and the Bandit,â and âBoogie Nights.â His signature charm, quick wit, and fearless presence made him one of Hollywoodâs most enduring and beloved stars.
âBurt had this magnetic energy,â Pitt shared. âHe walked into a room, and everyone lit up. You just wanted to be around him.â
Director Quentin Tarantino also reflected on working with the screen legend in his final days. âHe brought an old-school sense of showmanship,â Tarantino said. âHe was funny, warm, and incredibly sharp. Everyone who met him felt lucky.â
The Making of “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” is available now, offering intimate stories, rare photos, and heartfelt tributes from the cast and crew. The book captures both the making of Tarantinoâs Oscar-winning film and the lasting legacy of Burt Reynolds.
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