We have some sad news concerning the original Ghostbusters director, Ivan Reitman. The famed director has passed away aged 75. Mister Reitman was well-known for his collaborations with the likes of Sigourney Weaver, Dan Aykroyd, and Ernie Hudson. Outside of directing duties, he was also a producer on films such as Space Jam, 2017’s Baywatch, and his last producing credit, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, which was directed by his son, Jason. He was also the body double for the late Harold Ramis, whose character dies at the beginning of Afterlife but continues to play a role throughout the film via his grandchildren, especially his granddaughter, Phoebe, played by Mckenna Grace. He also executive produced a ton of projects including the Disney+ original film, Godmothered, and Space Jam: A New Legacy.
Ivan and his legacy
Ivan and his filmmaking career might’ve spanned decades, but his skills were passed down to his son, Jason, who directed Up in the Air and Tully. His father handed the Ghostbusters reins to him, allowing him to direct Ghostbusters: Afterlife. One of Ivan’s two daughters also works in the film industry.
During his life, Ivan was never afraid to adapt to the times. For example, the film he executive produced, Godmothered, is a streaming service film. He was also an executive producer on the animated television series Beethoven.
Ivan understood what it meant to fans of films and adapt to what filmmaking has become. He even jumped into a motion capture suit for Ghostbusters: Afterlife to help “resurrect” Harold Ramis’ character in the film. His scenes were some of the most touching in the entire film. It filled our eyes with tears just to see this occur.
In conclusion, Ivan Reitman is survived by his wife, Geneviève Robert, and their three children; Catherine, Jason, and Caroline. Rest in Peace, Mister Reitman. You’re with Harold now.
