As the anniversary of Burt Reynolds’ passing approaches, beloved television actress Victoria Principal took a moment to honor the late Hollywood icon.
Best known for her role as “Pamela Barnes Ewing” on the hit TV series Dallas, Principal revealed a candid story about the first time she met Reynolds — a moment fans instantly cherished.
Posting on Instagram, Principal shared a vintage photo from their first meeting and wrote, “Meeting Burt Reynolds for the first time. (Yes, I’m wearing fur. A rabbit jacket from a thrift shop. I apologize. I was a struggling actress & didn’t know better).”
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Though Principal and Reynolds never starred together in a major film or TV project, their friendship seemingly flourished behind the scenes during Hollywood’s golden era.
Reynolds, famously known for his role as the charismatic “Bandit” in Smokey and the Bandit (1977), was at the peak of his career as Principal was becoming a household name on Dallas, which premiered in 1978.
Dallas became one of television’s most iconic primetime soaps, shaping the TV landscape of the late 1970s and 1980s. According to Dallas TV Addicts, “With its serialized storytelling, Dallas changed the way audiences engaged with their favorite characters and narratives.”
Principal’s portrayal of “Pamela Barnes Ewing” helped anchor the show’s complex family dynamics, making her a familiar face to millions. At the same time, Reynolds was redefining what it meant to be a leading man, blending his rugged charm with comedic timing.
His performances in Deliverance (1972) and Boogie Nights (1997) showcased his range beyond action-comedy. Reynold’s role in the latter earned him critical acclaim and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Before Dallas, Principal’s career was still taking shape. She appeared in smaller projects and even considered law school to become a studio executive. An important turning point came when producer Aaron Spelling cast Principal in the pilot of Fantasy Island (1977), which helped pave the way for her breakthrough role on Dallas the following year.
Principal’s Instagram post sparked a heartfelt response from fans, who appreciated the nostalgic photo and her honest reflection on early career struggles.
“Both so charismatic. What a great picture,” read one comment.
“Keep telling us your stories, VP. We’re grateful to see these photos and share in your memories,” wrote a fan.
Someone else recalled, “I was a definite fan of Burt Reynolds. He had a great sense of humor. A friend of mine met him when she was a little girl. She showed a photo of the two of them. She spoke of how kind he was to her.”
“You were a little nervous in that show. I remember liking your hair that way. I hope he was very gracious in you meeting. There was so much ahead of you, and there is even more now,” another added, who remembered the time the two crossed paths.