LOS ANGELES (AP) – Nick Reiner, the son of renowned actor and director Rob Reiner, is set to face two counts of first-degree murder following the shocking deaths of his parents, Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, aged 78. Los Angeles County prosecutors announced the charges during a news conference alongside LA Police Chief Jim McDonnell.
The charges against Nick Reiner, 32, are based on the tragic incident that took place in their upscale Brentwood home, where the couple was discovered deceased from multiple stab wounds. He was arrested on suspicion of their murders just a few hours after their bodies were found on Sunday. In addition to the murder charges, prosecutors will include a special allegation that he used a dangerous weapon, specifically a knife, in the commission of the crimes.
Initially, Nick Reiner was expected to appear in court on Tuesday; however, his attorney, Alan Jackson, disclosed that due to medical reasons, his client was not transported from jail to the courthouse. Consequently, the court appearance has been postponed until Wednesday. As of now, Nick Reiner has not entered a plea regarding the charges.
Rob Reiner, best known for his Emmy-winning role in the sitcom “All in the Family,” went on to direct classic films including “When Harry Met Sally…” and “The Princess Bride.” He was known for his outspoken liberal activism over the decades. Meanwhile, Michele Singer Reiner was a celebrated photographer and movie producer, as well as a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. The couple had been married for 36 years.
While the Reiner family representatives have not responded to media requests for comments, the police have remained tight-lipped regarding the motive behind the killings. Investigators suspect that Rob and Michele died from stab wounds, as indicated by law enforcement officials speaking on the condition of anonymity.
This incident has left many in shock, especially considering the family's warm comic legacy. Rob Reiner was the son of late comedy legend Carl Reiner, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 98. Kathy Bates, who won an Oscar for her role in Rob Reiner’s 1990 film “Misery,” shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing her admiration for Rob Reiner’s artistry and Michele’s talent as a photographer.
Former President Bill Clinton also issued a statement, reflecting on the couple’s generosity and contributions to society through film and television. He expressed heartbreak over the tragic losses, describing them as “good, generous people who made everyone who knew them better.”
Three months prior to this tragedy, Nick Reiner was seen at the premiere of his father’s film “Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues” alongside his parents and siblings. Over the years, Nick has openly discussed his struggles with addiction, which included cycles of rehabilitation and homelessness during his adolescence. His relationship with his father was explored in the 2016 film “Being Charlie,” which Nick co-wrote and Rob directed—a story that mirrored their own lives albeit not being strictly autobiographical.
In light of the sad events, Rob Reiner’s legacy is rife with achievements as a director, producing some of the most iconic films of the 1980s and ‘90s, including “This is Spinal Tap” and “A Few Good Men.” Interestingly, he met Michele Singer on the set of “When Harry Met Sally…,” with their relationship inspiring the film to have a happier ending. Both Rob and Michele were known for their active engagement in liberal causes, being significant Democratic donors.
Adding to the controversy, former President Donald Trump has made unsubstantiated remarks linking Rob Reiner’s vocal opposition to his presidency to the horrific situation surrounding the Reiners, showcasing how political narratives can seep even into tragedies like this.
