Sally Field’s Worst On-Screen Kiss Might Surprise You
Sally Field, the beloved two-time Oscar-winning actress known for roles in classics like Forrest Gump, Norma Rae, and Steel Magnolias, has shared the screen—and romantic scenes—with some of Hollywood’s most iconic leading men. But when asked about her worst on-screen kiss, she didn’t hesitate to name a surprising co-star: none other than screen legend Burt Reynolds.
Fans might be stunned, considering the two had a well-known real-life romance in the late 1970s after starring together in the hit film Smokey and the Bandit. The chemistry was evident on screen, and many assumed the sparks were just as real off it. However, in a candid interview years later, Field revealed that their kissing scenes were far from enjoyable—at least for her.
According to Field, Reynolds had a tendency to “mash” his face into hers during kisses, leaving little room for tenderness or authenticity. She even joked that kissing him felt more like a battle than a romantic moment. “It wasn’t sensual. It wasn’t sweet. It was just… rough,” she confessed in an interview.
But the awkwardness wasn’t just about technique. Field has since spoken openly about the emotional complexities of their relationship. Though the two cared for each other, she admitted that she often felt diminished and controlled by Reynolds, who was at the height of his fame and influence. That tension, she suggested, bled into their on-screen chemistry, despite what audiences saw.
Reynolds, for his part, always spoke fondly of Field and once called her the love of his life. Still, Field has remained firm in her assessments, stating that while they shared a meaningful connection, the relationship—and those kissing scenes—were far from perfect.
For a woman whose career has spanned decades and included a wide range of romantic partners on screen, it’s telling that her most uncomfortable kiss came from someone so deeply tied to both her personal and professional life. It’s a reminder that movie magic doesn’t always reflect the reality behind the scenes.
