Gator is a 1976 action film starring and directed by Burt Reynolds that is a sequel to White Lightning. Reynolds honored his favorite professor from college, Watson B. Duncan III, with a cameo role in the film - casting him as the Governor's press secretary.

Richard Kiel said in his autobiography that he was supposed to be in this movie. Burt Reynolds (I) had, as a favor, made sure that there was a part written specially for him. In the end Kiel was not available for the part as Bones when they where shooting this movie. Kiel did however recommend his friend William Engesser for the part instead.

Filmed in and around Savannah and Tybee Island, Georgia. The historical waterfront is clearly visible in a scene where Gator is crossing a bridge into town.