In the documentary special “Rob Reiner — Scenes From a Life,” Kiefer Sutherland revealed the director’s life-changing impact on him. As the actor explained, the first time he met Reiner was during the casting process for “Stand By Me,” and being cast in the film changed everything.
“I’d been living in my car,” he admitted. “This was the best news I had ever gotten.” Taking on the role of Ace proved to be a huge career move for Sutherland, and it’s one he has always been grateful to Reiner for facilitating.
‘Stand By Me’ was a Huge Turning Point for Sutherland
“I had no idea, the course change in my life that it would make,” Sutherland said of playing Ace. “But he did.” Reiner created a resonant, classic story that became a massive hit once it hit the big screen. According to Sutherland, part of what made the director so special was the way he saw the world. “Rob Reiner had an incredible point of view,” the actor said. “A point of view that was inspired by real humanity, kindness, intellect… And all of those elements combined and allowed him to become a real American storyteller.”
“Stand By Me,” as it turned out, was just the beginning for Sutherland, who starred in “The Lost Boys” and three other films in 1987, the year after Reiner’s film hit theaters. He has since built an impressive resume in Hollywood, as have many stars who worked with Reiner early in their careers.
The Actor is One of Many Who Paid Tribute to Reiner in December 2025
In addition to Kiefer Sutherland’s kind words, the documentary features many of Reiner’s other friends and colleagues sharing their fondest memories and feelings about the director and his wife. Sutherland also posted a heartfelt tribute to Reiner after his tragic passing in December, but he is far from the only one who did so. Show business professionals from across Hollywood honored the family in the media.
Outside of social media posts from individual stars, the Associated Press also released a joint statement on December 16. Billy Crystal, Martin Short, and multiple other close friends of the Reiners signed the statement. “They were a special force together — dynamic, unselfish, and inspiring,” the message reads in part, describing the Reiners. “We were their friends, and we will miss them forever.”
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