Ivan Reitman Dead at 75: How Did the 'Ghostbusters' Director Die?
Ivan Reitman, a well-known personality in the film industry for directing "Ghost Busters," producing "Animal House," and many more, has passed away at the age of 75.
According to a joint statement issued by his children Jason, Catherine, and Caroline to the Associated Press, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter, they are currently grieving the "unexpected loss" of Reitman.
The "Golden Screen" awardee died peacefully in his sleep over the weekend at his home in Montecito, California. The family did not reveal whether he had a pre-existing medical condition before passing away.
His children added that while they mourn privately, they hope that the general public who knew him through his previous projects "will remember him always."
Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group also released a statement, saying the late director was an "inseparable part" of the company's legacy.
"A great talent and an even finer man; he will be dearly missed. We send his family all our condolences," he added.
Per People Magazine, the late director's Hollywood career skyrocketed through his comedy. In 1978, he produced National Lampoon's "Animal House," which became an instant favorite of fans.
He later directed iconic comedy movies, including "Stripes," starring Bill Murray and "Meatballs."
All of Reitman's hard work paid off when he amassed over two Academy Award nominations over his lifetime. One of his iconic films was the 1984 movie "Ghostbusters."
The film was a massive success as it grossed a whopping $300 million worldwide and had numerous spinoffs after its release.
"Ghostbusters: Afterlife," the latest franchise, was directed by his son Jason.
According to his IMBd profile, Reitman has over 25 directorial credits, including the movies "Cannibal Girls," "Twins," "Legal Eagles," "Cooking Lessons," "No Strings Attached," "Cooking Lessons," "My Super Ex-Girlfriend," and many more.
In addition, he has over 74 producing credits.
The famed producer was born in Komarmo, Czechslovakia, in 1946. His family, who were Hungarian Jews, later moved to Canada as refugees when he was four years old.
During college, Ivan Reitman studied Bachelor of Music in 1969 at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada. He was able to use his skills in filmmaking as he produced and directed several short films during his time there.
Reitman's survivors include his wife Genevieve and his children.
