The entertainment world is reeling from the tragic death of Rob Reiner, the celebrated director of films like "When Harry Met Sally" and "The Princess Bride," and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner. The couple was found dead in their Brentwood home on Sunday afternoon. Their son, Nick Reiner, 32, has been arrested on suspicion of double murder and is being held without bail.
According to law enforcement officials, the Reiners were discovered after a medical aid request was made to the Los Angeles Fire Department at approximately 3:38 p.m. PST. Both Rob, 78, and Michele, 70, had sustained fatal stab wounds. The Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the investigation.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation, but details are emerging about a heated argument between Rob and Nick Reiner the night before the tragedy. The argument reportedly took place at a Christmas party hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien. Family friends present at the party told the Los Angeles Times that "many people noticed Nick acting strangely". Sources speaking to TMZ described the argument between Rob and Nick as "very loud," and that the couple left the party following the dispute. It is unclear when Nick departed from the party.
Nick Reiner has a history of struggling with drug addiction and mental health issues. He has cycled through rehab centers and experienced periods of homelessness. Nick had been living in a guesthouse on his parents' property, and his mother had reportedly grown increasingly concerned about his mental health in recent weeks. In a 2018 podcast, Nick recounted an outburst where he "wrecked" his parents' guesthouse while high on drugs, which led to another rehab stint.
The Reiners' struggles with Nick's addiction were partially explored in the 2015 film "Being Charlie," which Nick co-wrote and Rob directed. The film tells the story of a young man battling addiction and his strained relationship with his father. Both Rob and Nick acknowledged that the film mirrored their own real-life conflicts. Rob Reiner stated that making the movie "dredged it all up again," but also allowed them to work through past trauma and develop a closer relationship. He admitted regretting not listening to Nick's feelings during his recovery, instead deferring to counselors.
News of the Reiners' deaths has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and the political world. Rob Reiner was a prominent political activist and advocate for progressive causes. Many have expressed their grief and condolences, including actor Jerry O'Connell, who said Reiner's death felt like losing a parent, and former President Bill Clinton, who called the Reiners' deaths a tragedy. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass described Reiner's death as a "devastating loss for the city".
The investigation into the Reiners' deaths is ongoing, and the Los Angeles County District Attorney is expected to review the case. Nick Reiner remains in custody as authorities continue to gather evidence and determine the full circumstances of this tragic event.
