Hollywood stars have been paying tribute to Rob Reiner — both as colleagues and as fans of his work.
Kathy Bates, who starred in Mr. Reiner’s “Misery,” based on the Stephen King thriller, said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that she was “absolutely devastated” after the director and his wife, Michele, were found dead at their home in Los Angeles on Sunday.
Ms. Bates described him as “brilliant and kind, a man who made films of every genre to challenge himself as an artist.”
“He also fought courageously for his political beliefs,” she said, adding: “He changed the course of my life.”
Jamie Lee Curtis issued a statement obtained by Deadline on behalf of herself and her husband, Christopher Guest. Mr. Guest starred in “Spinal Tap,” a heavy metal mockumetary that was one of several films directed by Mr. Reiner that became iconic movies of the 1980s and 1990s.
“Christopher and I are numb and sad and shocked about the violent, tragic deaths of our dear friends Rob and Michele Singer Reiner,” Ms. Curtis said. “Our only focus and care right now is for their children and immediate families and we will offer all support possible to help them,” she added.
“There will be plenty of time later to discuss the creative lives we shared and the great political and social impact they both had on the entertainment industry, early childhood development, the fight for gay marriage and their global care for a world in crisis,” Ms. Curtis’s statement continued.
Ben Stiller wrote in a post on X that Mr. Reiner had been one of his favorite directors. “He made some of the most formative movies for my generation,” Mr. Stiller said: “Spinal Tap is one of the best comedies ever made — and the list goes on.”
“I didn’t know him well but was always a fan and I feel a real sadness for those who did, and his family,” Mr. Stiller added.
Eric Idle, the British actor and comedian, wrote in a post on X that he had connected with Mr. Reiner this weekend. “I spoke to him last night for over an hour,” Mr. Idle said: “He was telling me about filming at Stonehenge and his thoughts for the future.”
“This is so awful,” Mr. Idle added: “I shall miss him. A clever, talented and very thoughtful man. So awful.”
Alex Marshall is a Times reporter covering European culture. He is based in London.
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