Sun Oct 13 01:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Burt Reynolds’ Near-Fatal Accident and Painkiller Addiction
**Hollywood, CA** – Burt Reynolds, the iconic tough guy actor known for his roles in films like “Smokey and the Bandit” and “Deliverance”, has revealed a harrowing story of near-death and addiction following a seemingly minor on-set accident.
While filming the 1984 buddy cop film “City Heat” alongside Clint Eastwood, Reynolds suffered a serious jaw injury after a stuntman accidentally struck him with a metal chair during a fight scene. The injury, described by Reynolds as “worse than a migraine,” led to a debilitating pain that he attempted to alleviate through painkillers.
However, the pain relief quickly spiraled into an addiction, with Reynolds admitting to taking “up to 50 painkillers a day.” The actor feared the stigma of being labeled a drug addict, potentially jeopardizing his career, and refused to seek professional help for his dependency.
The addiction reached a critical point, leading to a near-fatal overdose that saw Reynolds slip into a coma for several hours. Doctors even called in his then-wife, Loni Anderson, to say her final goodbyes.
Reynolds, who eventually made a full recovery from the overdose and his painkiller addiction, shared his story with TV Guide, highlighting the devastating consequences of a seemingly harmless accident and the importance of seeking help in times of need.
This revelation sheds light on the struggles even Hollywood’s toughest stars can face, emphasizing the reality of addiction and the impact it can have on even the most successful individuals.
First Piper 