Washington D.C. - President Bush issued a formal pardon to actor Burt Reynolds for his role in the planning, creation and execution of one of Hollywood ’s most dastardly crimes: Cannonball Run II. The President cited Mr. Reynold’s subsequent work in such quality films as “All Dogs Go To Heaven” and “Rent-A-Cop” as a mitigating factor in his decision.
Mr. Bush presented the pardon to Mr. Reynolds in a White House ceremony this morning. Mr. Reynolds was flanked at the podium by two of his long-time co-stars Dom Deluise and Jim Nabors. “Mr. Reynolds has endured the sting of barbed comments from comedians and critics alike for nearly twenty-five years as a result of his participation in this heinous production,” said Mr. Bush. “He has paid his debt to society. Let the healing begin.”
The presidential pardon expunges any mention of Cannonball Run II from Mr. Reynolds' filmography. Mr. Reynolds expressed his gratitude and his regrets to the President. “I would give anything to have that picture back,” he said. “But I did it, and I’m not proud of it, and I promise you, and the American people, that I will redeem your faith in me by never doing anything like it again.”
A pardon application from actress Elizabeth Berklee for her role in Paul Verhoeven’s 1995 film “Showgirls” remains pending. A spokesman for Mr. Bush said the President “needs to watch the movie a few more times” before making up his mind.
