Reynolds, Bandit reunite for DIY program

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Hollywood actor Burt Reynolds is set to star in the five-part DIY Network reality program, "Celebrity Rides: Burt Builds a Bandit," this fall.

Starting Oct. 19, the star of "Smokey and the Bandit" and his design team at YearOne auto restoration company will be seen restoring a fleet of limited-edition Trans Ams like the one he drove in the 1977 cult-classic film.

The network also pledged to give away one of the Burt Reynolds Edition Trans Ams to whoever sends in the most creative video explaining why he or she deserves one.

Reynolds will judge the contest, which opens Oct. 8.

Contestants can upload their entries at Heavy.com and the winner will be announced during a recap special on Dec. 14.

"In 1977, the water cooler conversation focused on Princess Leah, Annie Hall and a hot little car called Bandit. Thirty years later, car and film enthusiasts alike still have a passion for this incredible vehicle and the impact it had on pop culture," Kathleen Finch, DIY Network's general manager, said in a statement. "To be able to give away one of these incredible custom vehicles to a lucky DIY viewer is just icing on the cake."