Ryan Reynolds and Burt Reynolds are two of the most popular actors in Hollywood, but are they related? Many fans have wondered if there is a family connection between the two stars, who share not only a last name but also a talent for comedy and action. In this article, we will explore the truth behind the rumor and find out if Ryan Reynolds is related to Burt Reynolds.
Who is Ryan Reynolds?
Ryan Rodney Reynolds, born on October 23, 1976, is a Canadian-American actor, film producer and businessman. He first gained fame through his role in the Canadian teen soap opera Hillside (1991-1993), before securing minor roles in other productions. Reynolds eventually landed the lead role in the sitcom Two Guys and a Girl, which aired between 1998 and 2001.
His most notable success came from his portrayal of the title character in the 20th Century Fox X-Men films Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018), both of which set numerous records upon release for an R-rated comedy. Reynolds received nominations at the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards and the Golden Globe Awards for his performance in the first film.
Reynolds has also starred in other successful films, such as Van Wilder (2002), The Proposal (2009), Buried (2010), The Croods (2013), The Hitman’s Bodyguard (2017) and Free Guy (2021). He is also known for his voice work in animated films, such as Turbo (2013), Detective Pikachu (2019) and The Croods: A New Age (2020).
Reynolds is married to actress Blake Lively, with whom he has three children. He is also a co-owner of Aviation American Gin and Mint Mobile, and a philanthropist who supports various causes, such as cancer research, mental health awareness and environmental conservation.
Who was Burt Reynolds?
Burton Leon Reynolds Jr., also known as Burt Reynolds, was an American actor and director who became an icon of 1970s American popular culture. He was born on February 11, 1936, and died on September 6, 2018.
Reynolds began his career as a football player at Florida State University, but switched to acting after a series of injuries. He made his film debut in Angel Baby (1961), and later appeared in television shows such as Gunsmoke (1962-1965), Hawk (1966) and Dan August (1970-1971).
Reynolds rose to stardom with his breakout role as Lewis Medlock in Deliverance (1972), which earned him critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination. He then became one of the highest-grossing actors of the decade with hits such as The Longest Yard (1974), Smokey and the Bandit (1977), Hooper (1978) and The Cannonball Run (1981).
Reynolds also ventured into directing, producing and writing, with films such as Gator (1976), The End (1978) and Sharky’s Machine (1981). He won a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy Award for his role as Wood Newton in the sitcom Evening Shade (1990-1994). He also received an Oscar nomination for his supporting role as Jack Horner in Boogie Nights (1997).
Reynolds was married twice, first to actress Judy Carne from 1963 to 1965, and then to actress Loni Anderson from 1988 to 1993. He had one son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds, with Anderson. He was also romantically involved with several other celebrities, such as Sally Field, Dinah Shore and Dolly Parton.
Reynolds suffered from various health issues in his later years, such as heart problems, addiction and chronic pain. He died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 82.
Is Ryan Reynolds Related to Burt Reynolds?
The short answer is no. Ryan Reynolds and Burt Reynolds are not related. They only share a name.
Ryan Reynolds is the son of James Chester Reynolds and Tamara Lee (née Stewart), while Burt Reynolds is the son of Burton Milo Reynolds Sr. and Harriet Fernette “Fern” (née Miller). The two have no familial connection.
According to The Little Facts¹, genealogy research has shown that the Reynolds family has roots in Ireland and Scotland, which could potentially link the two actors’ families. However, there is no evidence that they are actually related by blood or marriage.
The rumor that Ryan Reynolds is related to Burt Reynolds may have originated from their similar appearances, careers and personalities. Both actors have brown hair, blue eyes and charming smiles. Both actors have excelled in comedy and action genres, and have played anti-heroes and outlaws. Both actors have also been known for their wit, humor and charisma.
However, these similarities are not enough to prove a family relationship. Ryan Reynolds and Burt Reynolds are simply two talented actors who happen to share a common surname.
