Tatum O’Neal Says Richard Burton Propositioned Her as a Teen as They Costarred in “Circle of Two”

Tatum O’Neal Recalls Disturbing Encounter with Costar Richard Burton During Teenage Years

Tatum O’Neal, known for her time in the spotlight from a young age, recently opened up about a troubling experience she faced while filming the movie “Circle of Two” with Richard Burton. The actress shared her recollections in an interview with Variety, shedding light on an uncomfortable moment during the filming process.

In the 1980 film, which was later titled “Obsession,” O’Neal portrayed a 15-year-old character who becomes involved with a 60-year-old artist, played by Burton. Reflecting on the project, O’Neal described the movie as lacking quality, despite Burton’s undeniable talent. She expressed her dismay over having to shoot a topless scene alongside her 54-year-old costar when she was just 16 years old.

O’Neal disclosed that Burton, who battled with alcoholism, made advances towards her, offering her a drink and attempting to proposition her by asking if she wanted to kiss him. The actress, now looking back on the uncomfortable situation, admitted that she was taken aback and declined the offer, recalling her response as a firm “Nah, I ain’t going to do that.”

In a candid moment, O’Neal also shared her fond memories of Burton from a 2019 conversation with Interview magazine, where she discussed the actor’s unique personality and quirks. She reminisced about his love for red wine, his poetic nature, and the endearing nickname he had given her. Despite the challenges they faced during the filming of “Circle of Two,” O’Neal’s admiration for Burton’s talent remained intact.

Having starred alongside her father Ryan O’Neal in the acclaimed film “Paper Moon,” for which she won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar at the tender age of 10, Tatum O’Neal has navigated a complex family dynamic in the public eye. Her strained relationship with her father, documented in her 2004 biography “A Paper Life,” underwent a transformative phase in 2008 when they began the journey towards reconciliation.

The journey towards healing between Tatum and Ryan O’Neal was spurred on by a shared experience—the diagnosis of Ryan’s then-partner Farrah Fawcett with cancer. Their efforts to mend their relationship were further tested by Ryan’s health battles which eventually led to his passing in 2023. Despite the turbulence in their family history, Tatum and her father were able to find common ground and foster a sense of connection in their later years.

The revelations made by Tatum O’Neal regarding her encounter with Richard Burton shed light on the challenges faced by young actors in the industry and the importance of setting boundaries in professional settings. As she continues to reflect on her experiences and share her journey with the world, O’Neal’s resilience and honesty serve as a testament to her strength as a survivor of challenging circumstances.

In the realm of Hollywood where glamour often overshadows the darker realities, voices like Tatum O’Neal’s are crucial in sparking conversations around consent, respect, and the protection of minors within the entertainment industry. By bravely speaking out about her past encounters, O’Neal contributes to a broader dialogue on accountability and creates space for others to share their stories and seek support.