Those fans who have been around for awhile will know how important Mike Nichols was to Natalie, so it’s no surprise that Natalie has released a statement about the director’s passing.

“He was the one who had the best words, the right hug for hard times, the funny comment to diffuse your pain,” Portman continued. “He saved me again and again. He was the best way to be a person and an artist. And the most, most fun. I send my deepest love to Diane, Jenny, Max, Daisy and their children, who filled his days with light.”