Lesley-Anne Down Says “Rough Cut ”Costar Burt Reynolds Was ‘Obsessed’ with Wearing Lifts in His Shoes to Give Him ‘an Extra 4 Inches’

Lesley-Anne Down, the British actress known for her role in the acclaimed television series *Upstairs, Downstairs*, has recently offered a nostalgic reflection on her time working with Hollywood legend Burt Reynolds during the filming of the 1980 film *Rough Cut*. In a candid interview with Entertainment Weekly, Down shared her experiences and insights about the late actor, whom she found both entertaining and somewhat self-conscious about his appearance.

Down reminisced that although Reynolds stood nearly 6 feet tall, he had a desire to appear taller on screen. During the production of *Rough Cut*, which also starred David Niven and was directed by Don Siegel, the actress revealed that Reynolds often wore lifts in his shoes to achieve that extra height. This well-known quirk, according to Down, played into Reynolds’ broader obsession with his appearance, particularly concerning his hair, height, and overall image.

Reflecting on one particular day while filming in London, Down recalled walking alongside Reynolds as he expressed his intention to wear heeled boots with insoles. She remembered advising him against it, worried that such footwear would discomfort him. “I said, ‘Don’t put those on,’” she recalled, citing her concerns for his comfort over the visual effect he sought. Encountering Reynolds without his customary height boost was noteworthy for Down, who described it as the first time she saw him at his natural stature.

Despite the actor’s preoccupation with his physical presentation, Down portrayed him as humorous and lively. She described Reynolds as “so funny” and noted his amusing fixation on what she playfully referred to as “the top, bottom, and middle”—elements of his appearance that occupied his thoughts. This light-hearted characterisation adds a personal touch to the memories she holds of their time together, highlighting both professionalism and camaraderie on set.

Furthermore, Down elaborated on Reynolds’ quirky habits beyond just lifts. She mentioned his use of various hairpieces and weaves, capturing the essence of his commitment to maintaining a particular image that many audience members recognised. This obsession with aesthetics, she noted, was not entirely uncommon in the film industry, particularly among male stars during that era.

However, it’s intriguing to contrast Down’s depiction with earlier profiles of Reynolds. For instance, a 1989 article in TV Guide hinted at a shift in Reynolds’ self-image, as reporter Pat Jordan observed that the actor had ceased wearing lifts. At that time, he was described as being slightly hunched and having a noticeable paunch, a physical change that seemed not to trouble him. This commentary suggests an evolution in how Reynolds perceived himself, gradually moving away from his youthful preoccupations and adapting to the realities of aging.

Reynolds and Down’s collaborative efforts in *Rough Cut* resonated with audiences and showcased the charm and charisma for which he was known. The film, a heist comedy that combined elements of wit and thrills, allowed Reynolds to shine, reinforcing his status as a beloved figure in cinema.

Despite his untimely passing from a heart attack on September 6, 2018, at the age of 82, Burt Reynolds remains a giant in the cinematic landscape. His influence continues to be felt, with actors and filmmakers reflecting on his career often marked by laughter, charm, and an undeniable screen presence. For Down, the memories of working alongside him remain a source of joy and humour, encapsulating the spirit of a man who was as talented as he was uniquely self-aware.

In sharing her experiences, Lesley-Anne Down not only celebrates the achievements of Burt Reynolds but also provides a glimpse into the personal dynamics that can occur behind the scenes in the film industry. Her reflections serve as a reminder of the humanity and vulnerabilities that exist even amongst Hollywood’s most renowned stars, shedding light on the complexities of self-perception and the pursuit of perfection in a visual medium.