ONCE follicly-challenged, but rescued by a triumph of wig-making, film actor Burt Reynolds this week sought another sort of deliverance, this time from his creditors who are owed around £6.5 million. Reynolds, whose best-known macho roles were in the John Boorman film Deliverance and in the comedy drama Smokey and the Bandit, has run for the cover provided by federal bankruptcy laws. His attorney said that the actor decided to seek some "breathing space to focus on his career" after some unprofitable business investments.

The actor, who owns a tourist ranch in Florida which sells souvenirs and memorabilia of the star's career, has assets "slightly less" than outstanding debts, intends to meet his financial obligations. Reynolds has opted for Chapter 11 protection which will enable debtors to receive more than under a Chapter 7 liquidation. Some asset sales are being contemplated. The famous thatch, however, will remain firmly on the head.