Jennifer Garner Says Late Director Ivan Reitman ‘Saw My Life More Clearly’ In Heartfelt Tribute

Jennifer Garner remembers Ivan Reitman in a touching social media post.

The “13 Going on 30” star, 49, took to Instagram to share a beautiful tribute to the late director, who passed away on February 12 at age 75.

Recalling Wonderful Memories

Garner posted a black-and-white picture of herself and Reitman having a fun conversation.

“I loved Ivan Reitman,” she began.

“As a director, Ivan had such an astute eye he noticed every thought crossing my mind in every take. He would rush in with so many notes and ideas my brain would explode trying to keep track and execute – getting a laugh or good job from Ivan equaled Day Made,” Garner continued, adding, “Between takes, Ivan and I talked and talked and talked. He saw my life more clearly than I did at the time; I’ll always love him for his candor and fierce protection.”

She also noted how “lucky” she was to have “worked with both Ivan and @jasonreitman (@reitcatou and @badandy—you’re next ♥️) and while I didn’t see them together often, I saw one in the other all of the time: a shared kindness, a shared devotion to family, to @tiff_net, to music, to hockey (wasn’t it the @canucks?), to filmmaking. A deep devotion to each other.”

Missing The ‘Chance’ To Say ‘Thank You’

Garner also shared their recent meeting before his death.

“I had a chance to see Ivan, his beautiful wife, Geneviève, Jason—all of the Reitman family—recently. Something got in the way, at the time it was impossible to make the evening happen,” she recalled. “Today I don’t remember what was so important, but my heart hurts that I missed a chance to sit next to Ivan and talk and talk. I would have told him thank you.”

“Instead I’m sharing with all of you, hoping you’ll remember the brilliant man behind STRIPES, KINDERGARTEN COP, MEATBALLS, GHOSTBUSTERS, DAVE, TWINS, and even—DRAFT DAY,” Garner noted as she concluded her message, writing, “My love to my friend Jason, his family, and everyone who loved Ivan Reitman. ♥️”

Fans React To The Share

 

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A post shared by Jennifer Garner (@jennifer.garner)

The “Daredevil” actress’ followers adore her tribute to the late director by liking her post over 61,600 times. Hundreds of users also rushed to the comments section of the share to share their thoughts about Reitman’s passing.

“OMG Meatballs! My friends and I would watch every last day of school during high school! RIP and I’m very sorry for your loss. ❤️” one commented.

“So well said, Jennifer. Your heartbreak is tangible. My condolences from 🇨🇦 . Truly an iconic Canadian family,” added another fan.

“Such a beautiful tribute to Ivan. So astute of you to appreciate his attention to the nuances of your every word, action, and emotion,” quipped the third commenter.

“I’m so sad Ivan has passed. Super talent and was always kind to ghostbusters fans,” a fourth comment read.

His Family Confirmed His Death

 

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A post shared by Jason Reitman (@jasonreitman)

Reitman, who was known for his work on “Ghostbusters,” “Stripes”, “Dave,” and more, died in his sleep in Montecito, California. His family issued a statement to the Associated Press.

“Our family is grieving the unexpected loss of a husband, father, and grandfather who taught us to always seek the magic in life,” his children, director Jason Reitman, Catherine Reitman, and Caroline Reitman, said at the time.

“We take comfort that his work as a filmmaker brought laughter and happiness to countless others around the world. While we mourn privately, we hope those who knew him through his films will remember him always,” they added.

More Tributes

Since his passing, several celebrities have taken to social media to pay tribute to Reitman.

“Opening night of Ghostbusters at UA Plainview was like a rock concert,” comedian Judd Apatow tweeted. “The place exploded with joy. It was one of the most memorable moments of my childhood. Ivan Reitman influenced everything we all love about film comedy. A true legend.”

Actress Mindy Kaling also remembred the renowned director:

“Ivan Reitman was old school in the best way, and kind,” she wrote in a tweet. “I loved working with him. It’s sad he’s gone, it makes me feel older and like my childhood movies are more faraway than ever. RIP ❤️”

As for actor Paul Feig, he recalled Reitman’s generosity in his tribute.

“One of the most special moments to me was after our last test screening of Ghostbusters:ATC after we did some reshoots and our scores went through the roof. Ivan met me out in the lobby and said ‘I’m so happy for you I feel like crying.’ That’s the kind of generous man he was. ❤️