celebritiesCanadian director Ivan Reitman passed away this weekend at the age of 75. The Czechoslovak-born filmmaker made waves in the 1980s and 1990s with a series of successful comedies, including the ‘Ghostbusters’ films.
His family confirmed in a statement on Sunday that Reitman died in his sleep on Saturday. His death was unexpected, they said in the statement. “We are comforted that his work as a filmmaker has brought laughter and happiness to so many people around the world.”
Without a doubt, Reitman’s most successful film was Ghostbusters. The film, starring Bill Murray and Sigourney Weaver, grossed around $300 million worldwide and was nominated for two Oscars. In addition to the two ‘Ghostbusters’ from 1984 and 1989, Reitman also directed ‘Twins’ (1988), ‘Kindergarten Cop’ (1990) and ‘Fathers’ Day’ (1997). He was also producer of ‘Beethoven’ (1992) and ‘Space Jam’ (1996), among others.
Son Jason directed sequel ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ last year, on which Ivan Reitman was also one of the producers. An emotional moment, Reitman told The Hollywood Reporter in November. “It was a very personal experience and it brought tears to my eyes at times. The day when all three protagonists showed up for the first time was extraordinary.”
Free unlimited access to Showbytes? Which can!
Log in or create an account and never miss a thing from the stars.