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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Jamie Roberts

Ivan Reitman dead: Respected Ghostbusters director dies aged 75

The director of classic film Ghostbusters has died at the age of 75.

Ivan Reitman directed a host of hit films during the 1980s and his family confirmed he died "unexpectedly" in his sleep.

His cause of death was not released but his family said he passed away on February 12.

Ivan Reitman has died (Getty Images for Sony Pictures)

Among his 74 producer credits were an array of classic comedies, such as Animal House.

He was also the man behind Beethoven, Twins, Kindergarten Cop and Old School.

Perhaps his most famous accolade came in the form of Ghostbusters, which co-starred Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver and Rick Moranis.

The smash hit earned two Oscar nominations and earned around $300 million worldwide.

His son who is also a director, Jason Reitman, took charge of the reboot of the comedy, Ghostbusters: Afterlife.

Ivan Reitman was best known for being the director of Ghostbusters (Corbis via Getty Images)

The film, which was released last year was the latest in a long line of sequels spawned from the original movie.

Ivan told Hollywood Reporter last year that working alongside his son for the movie was a "sometimes tear-inducing experience".

Ivan married wife Geneviève Robert in 1976 and the pair welcomed three kids together.

Fans of Ivan were quick to take to social media on Sunday night following the news of his death.

One Twitter user wrote: "See you on the other side. Rest In Peace Ivan Reitman 10/27/46 - 2/12/2022"

Another penned: "Ivan Reitman created one of cinemas most recognisable themes & films in Ghostbusters, that have thus far spanned decades, aging like beauty & introducing themselves to new generations. They won't ever be forgotten, and nor will he. This is upsetting, may he rest peacefully."

A third commented: "RIP to Ivan Reitman, the influential filmmaker behind some of our favorite movies, including GHOSTBUSTERS."

Ivan Reitman at last year's Ghostbusters: Afterlife premiere in New York (WireImage)

And a fourth said: "I had the honor of working with Ivan Reitman. A truly kind man and the director of so many iconic films. He will be missed. #RIPIvanReitman"

Fans also took to his son Jason's last Instagram post from six weeks ago to send personal messages of condolences.

One user wrote: "I’m so sorry about the loss of your dad. He brought absolute joy and laughter to millions."

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