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Burt Reynolds remains in ICU battling flu

Burt Reynolds is in the process of recovering from a severe bout of the flu, and remains in the intensive care Unit of a Florida-area hospital, according to a representative for the "Smokey and the Bandit" star.

A spokesperson for Reynolds tells CNN the 76-year-old actor was admitted to the hospital Friday after suffering from dehydration and symptoms of the flu. The rep declined to name the hospital, citing Reynolds' privacy. The actor owns an estate in Hobe Sound, Fla.

This isn't the only health issue Reynolds has had to face. In 2009, the actor entered rehab for painkiller addiction following back surgery and in 2010, he underwent a quintuple heart bypass.

Reynolds began his acting career with small on-screen roles in the late 1950s before starring in critically-acclaimed films such as 1972's "Deliverance." He earned his lone Oscar nomination for 1997's "Boogie Nights." Reynolds also had a hit TV show in the 1990s with "Evening Shade."

Reynolds' representative has said that the actor's condition has improved since he was admitted to the hospital, and Reynolds could be released as early as today.

Stay with CBSNews.com for updates on Reynolds' condition.

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