The name of Sonny Steele's horse in the film is "Rising Star". The star steed was played by a 5-year-old bay thoroughbred called "Let's Merge" after a 6-month equine talent search. Robert Redford bought the horse after production was complete and owned him for 18 years before the horse passed away.
Most of the location shooting was done in Utah, USA near actor Robert Redford's home. This provided a tax break for him and also made things convenient for him as he had been living in seclusion in Utah for a few years.
This movie marked the first lead role in a movie after a 3-year hiatus for star Robert Redford who had put himself into semi-retirement and reclusive retreat at his mountaintop Utah ranch; his return to the big screen in this film was much-publicized.
Debut as an actor in a film for Willie Nelson. Nelson also sang five songs for the film's soundtrack.
Sydney Pollack: Seen making a pass at Jane Fonda during a Las Vegas convention. Also seen dealing cards in the first casino scene at Caesars Palace. He is wearing a white shirt.
Sydney Pollack: As the voice of Les, Hallie Martin's boss, on the phone when she calls from the coffee shop to say that she's interviewed Sonny Steele.