During the 98th Academy Awards, actor Billy Crystal delivered a heartfelt tribute to the esteemed film director Rob Reiner, capturing the audience’s attention with his sincere words. Known for their longstanding friendship, Crystal and Reiner first crossed paths while working together on an episode of the classic television show “All in the Family.” Their bond strengthened over the years, most notably when Crystal starred in Reiner’s iconic film, “When Harry Met Sally…”
In his tribute, Crystal reminisced about Reiner’s impressive career, highlighting some of his most celebrated works, including “This is Spinal Tap,” “Stand by Me,” and “Misery.” Crystal emphasized the enduring impact of Reiner’s films, stating, “My friend Rob’s movies will last a lifetime because they were about what makes us laugh and cry and what we aspire to be. Far better in his eyes, far kinder, far funnier, and far more human.”
Crystal didn’t stop there; he also took a moment to honor Michele Singer Reiner, Rob’s wife, who, alongside her husband, played a pivotal role in advocating for marriage equality in the United States. “Rob and Michele Reiner became the driving force in the landmark decision for marriage equality in the United States,” Crystal remarked, which was met with resounding applause from the audience. He concluded by acknowledging the profound impact of their contributions, saying, “Their loss is immeasurable.”
“My friend Rob’s movies will last a lifetime because they were about what makes us laugh and cry and what we aspire to be. Far better in his eyes, far kinder, far funnier and far more human,” Crystal said.
He then went on to honor photographer and producer Michele Singer Reiner, Rob’s wife.
“Rob and Michele Reiner became the driving force in the landmark decision for marriage equality in the United States,” Crystal said to roaring applause. “Their loss is immeasurable.”
Crystal said Reiner told him it meant everything to him that his work meant something to his fans.
“For us who had the privilege of working with and knowing and loving him, all we can say is, ‘Buddy, what fun we had storming the castle,’” Crystal said, quoting Reiner’s film “The Princess Bride.”
The tribute ended with several of Reiner’s other collaborators joining Crystal on the stage, including Meg Ryan, Demi Moore, Kathy Bates, Kiefer Sutherland, Mandy Patinkin and more.
Crystal’s tribute led into the wider In Memoriam segment, which featured nods to Robert Redford, Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, Cathrine O’Hara and more. It also featured a musical performance from Barbra Streisand and a speech from Rachel McAdams.
Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead in their Brentwood home back in December. Their son, Nick Reiner, is facing two counts of first-degree murder.
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