To millions of movie fans, Sally Field and Burt Reynolds looked like one of Hollywood’s great romances. Their chemistry in Smokey and the Bandit was undeniable, and their off-screen relationship only added to the fascination.

But Field’s memories of their years together are far more complicated.

At 79, she has spoken candidly about a relationship she says could be controlling and emotionally difficult. One major turning point came when Field was offered Norma Rae. According to Field, Reynolds strongly discouraged her from taking the role and even threw the script at her.

She refused to give up the opportunity. Norma Rae went on to transform her career and earn Field her first Academy Award for Best Actress.

Looking back decades later, Field doesn’t describe Reynolds simply as the great lost love Hollywood sometimes portrayed him to be. Their relationship was intense and important — but it also became part of Field’s journey toward trusting herself and taking control of her own life.

And in the end, choosing her own path changed everything.