The entertainment world is reeling from the tragic death of Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, 70, who were found dead in their Los Angeles-area home on Sunday, December 14. Their son, Nick Reiner, 32, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody. Initial bail was set at $4 million but has since been revoked and he is being held without bail.
According to multiple reports, the tragic events may have been preceded by a heated argument between Rob and Nick Reiner at a Christmas party hosted by Conan O'Brien on Saturday night. Sources speaking to TMZ stated that the argument was "very loud," and noticeable enough for other guests to overhear. Rob and Michele reportedly left the party shortly after the argument, but it is unclear whether Nick also departed at the same time. Us Weekly reported that another source stated Nick was acting "creepily" at the party. The Los Angeles Times noted that family friends reported that many guests observed Nick acting strangely at the party.
Law enforcement sources have indicated that there were no signs of forced entry at the Reiner home and that the couple suffered injuries consistent with being stabbed. TMZ reported the couple's throats were slit. The bodies were discovered by the Reiners' daughter, Romy.
Nick Reiner has a history of struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. Family friends told The Los Angeles Times that Nick had been in and out of rehab and experienced periods of homelessness. Michele Reiner had reportedly expressed increasing concern about her son's mental health in recent weeks and had confided in friends that she and Rob were at their "wits' end" regarding Nick's issues, stating "We've tried everything". Nick co-wrote the semi-autobiographical film "Being Charlie," which was directed by his father.
The news of the Reiners' deaths has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and the political world. Rob Reiner was not only a celebrated director and actor but also a prominent political voice and activist for progressive causes. He was known for his roles in "All in the Family" and for directing iconic films such as "When Harry Met Sally," "The Princess Bride," and "This Is Spinal Tap". Michele Singer Reiner was a photographer and creative partner to Rob, and she influenced the ending of "When Harry Met Sally".
Following the tragedy, tributes have poured in from numerous figures, including Barack Obama, Stephen King, and Ben Stiller. Billy Crystal and Larry David were seen looking distraught while leaving the Reiner home on Sunday evening. The Reiner family released a statement expressing their heartbreak and requesting privacy during this difficult time. Rob Reiner's daughter, Tracy, said she came from the "greatest family ever".
