Burt Reynolds Sues Ex-Girlfriend for Extortion

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Actor Burt Reynolds (search) sued his former girlfriend Monday, alleging that she was threatening to falsely accuse him of abuse if he did not pay millions of dollars in extortion.

The lawsuit says that Pamela M. Seals (search) falsely accused Reynolds of yelling at her and stomping on her toes. Seals, who was Reynolds' girlfriend for 10 years, told the actor she would publicize her allegations if he did not agree to a hefty settlement that included support for her and her mother, half of Reynolds' Jupiter, Fla., home and other compensation.

Bob Montgomery, Reynolds' attorney, called Seals' threats "blackmail." He said the actor offered to settle the matter for $1 million but Seals refused. He said because Reynolds and Seals were never married, she is entitled to nothing under Florida law.

"She wanted more and more and her demands were absolutely exorbitant," Montgomery said.

The lawsuit asks for unspecified damages and for a court to stop Seals from suing Reynolds in California, where the couple lived temporarily.

In a statement, Reynolds called the situation "unfortunate" and said he would not be "intimidated by false accusations."

Attorney Mark Maynor, who represents Seals, said he had not seen the lawsuit early Monday and had no immediate comment.

Reynolds began acting on television in the 1960s and is known for his work in movies, such as "Smokey and the Bandit," "Boogie Nights" for which he was nominated for an Oscar for best supporting actor, "Deliverance" and "Starting Over." He currently is shooting a remake of "The Longest Yard."

In 1996, after a messy divorce from Loni Anderson (search), Reynolds filed for bankruptcy protection, with debts totaling $10 million. Montgomery said he has recovered from his financial problems.