Not that people needed another reason to love Keanu Reeves, but the actor once again endeared himself to fans with a moving tribute to his mom in a San Diego Comic-Con appearance. 

During a panel discussion in the iconic Hall H, he promoted his original comic book series BRZRKR, which is being expanded by Netflix into a planned anime series and feature film. Among those taking part in the panel was screenwriter Mattson Tomlin, who is writing the movie and was announced during the event as the showrunner for the anime project.

In addition to the anticipated streaming projects, BRZRKR has been adapted into a 353-page novel entitled The Book of Elsewhere that hit shelves this month.

The novel, co-authored with renowned British writer China Miéville, follows an immortal assassin across time and space as he strives to discover his 80,000-year-old origins. In the opening pages of The Book of Elsewhere, the two authors dedicate the book to their mothers. 

Flipping through its pages on stage, Reeves paused to read out the tribute he wrote at the start of the book: “A dedication to our mothers: for life, for storytelling, for love.” He was greeted by fans audibly saying “aw” and cheering from the packed audience.

During the Comic-Con event, the star was surprised with SDCC‘s Inkpot Award for his contributions to art and pop culture. Among the panel’s other notable moments was Tomlin sharing that he had recently handed in his latest draft for Netflix’s BRZRKR feature.

It’s no secret Reeves is a proud and unabashed mama’s boy. Throughout his career, he has had the love and support of his mother, costume designer Patricia Taylor, and she shared the spotlight with him on the Oscars red carpet in 2020. He even purchased her a home in Los Angeles before getting one for himself. 

The Book of Elsewhere, published by Boom! Studios, hit shelves July 23.