Alfie Wise dead at 82: Burt Reynolds’ co-star and friend passes away

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Alfie Wise has died at the age of 82.

On July 22, he breathed his last due to natural reasons at the Thomas H. Corey Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Palm Beach, Florida. His fiancée, Stephanie Bliss, confirmed this news to The Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday.

In my line of work as a lifestyle guide, I’m often asked about the legendary figure who graced our screens alongside ’70s heartthrob Burt Reynolds. This Hollywood star, in the annals of cinema history, was widely recognized not just for his acting prowess, but also for their exceptional camaraderie and shared screen presence.

This individual from Pennsylvania collaborated with Reynolds on films such as “The Longest Yard” (1974), “Smokey and the Bandit” (1977), “Hooper” (1978), “The Cannonball Run” (1981), “Paternity” (1981), “Stroker Ace” (1983), and “City Heat” (1984).

And Wise appeared on Reynolds’ TV shows BL Stryker and Evening Shade. 

In addition to his work on Reynolds’ movies, Wise also starred in a number of films such as Midway (1976), Swashbuckler (1976), Hot Stuff (1979), Rad (1986) and Catherine’s Grove (1997).

Additionally, Wise was a frequent guest on various well-known television programs, including Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, The Jeffersons, The Sandy Duncan Show, and Tour of Duty.

In an interview with The New York Daily News shortly after Reynolds’ passing in 2018, I shared that he held a special place for his friends, and he consistently made us feel part of something truly extraordinary. His movies were nothing short of an unending celebration, much like a lively block party.

It seems clear that the audience understood that point. You’ve always known that having a Burt Reynolds film would result in a fantastic experience.

He also served as Reynolds’ assistant during their many years together.

He stated back in the late ’70s, in an article published in Altoona Mirror, that it has been extremely fortunate for him to become acquainted with and collaborate with such a great friend. Burt is not only a true gentleman in the industry, but also a kind and compassionate individual.

Born in the town of Altoona, Pennsylvania, Wise completed his education at Keith Junior High School and Altoona Area High School, receiving his diploma in the year 1960.

After that, I attended Pennsylvania State University for my college education, and later, I served in the U.S. Navy.

He began his screen career in 1972, appearing in the television film Call Her Mom.

In the same year, he appeared in the sitcom television series The Sandy Duncan Show.

In the later stages of his acting career, Wise played the role of paramedic Sidney Pacelli in the ABC medical drama series Trauma Center, which aired in 1983. He acted alongside James Naughton, Jack Bannon, Lou Ferrigno, Wendie Malick, and Dorian Harewood on this television show.

He retired from acting in 2000 and became a real estate agent in Jupiter, Florida.

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2025-08-05 22:25