Often Imitated, Burt Reynolds’ Iconic Cosmo Shoot Became an Advertising Go-To for Decades

Everyone from Deadpool to the Burger King rocked the bear rug

#SMW is right around the corner. Join us April 9-11 in NYC to get up to speed on all the latest strategies, technologies and trends you need to be following. Register now.

One of the most lasting aspects of Burt Reynolds’ charm was that he straddled the line between safe and risky—the kind of guy you might follow on any journey, even if you thought twice about bringing him home to meet the family.

Watching Smokey and the Bandit as an 8-year-old in 1977, he was mildly responsible for teaching me how to flip the bird (though I admittedly learned it from Sally Field in the film). A week later, I tried to give my newfound skill a try.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in