Hollywood is grieving the tragic loss of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner.
The couple was discovered deceased in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Sunday, December 14. According to TMZ, Rob, aged 78, and Michele appeared to have suffered injuries consistent with knife wounds.
Their family confirmed the news late Sunday night. A spokesperson told Variety, “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner. We are heartbroken by this sudden loss and request privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Rob’s career began as an actor on the CBS sitcom All in the Family, where he won two Emmy awards for his portrayal of Mike “Meathead” Stivic. He later became a successful filmmaker, directing classics like This Is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally…, and A Few Good Men.
Michele was an actress and producer who worked alongside her husband on several projects, including the recent Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.
Tributes have been shared worldwide, including from Kathy Bates, Ben Stiller, and former U.S. President Barack Obama.
Kathy Bates
Bates, an Oscar winner for her role in Reiner’s Misery, expressed her devastation to NBC News, saying, “Rob was brilliant and kind, a man who made films of every genre to challenge himself as an artist. He also fought courageously for his political beliefs. Michelle was a gifted photographer. My heart breaks for them both.”
Cary Elwes
Elwes, who starred in The Princess Bride, shared a set photo on Instagram with the caption: “No words…”
Ben Stiller
Stiller remarked on X, “What a huge loss. Rob Reiner was one of my favorite directors. He made some of the most formative movies for my generation. He was a kind, caring person who was really, really funny.”
Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher Guest
The couple shared their shock and grief in a statement to Variety, focusing on supporting the Reiner family in their time of need.
Stephen King
King expressed his sorrow on X, calling Reiner a “wonderful friend, political ally, and brilliant filmmaker.”
Jerry O’Connell
O’Connell, reflecting on his time with Reiner, described him as “like a father” and credited him for his career success.
Norman Lear Family
The Lear family shared their devastation, with Lyn Lear noting, “The world is unmistakably darker tonight.”
Barack Obama
Obama shared his condolences on X, praising Rob’s achievements and the couple’s commitment to purpose-driven lives.
Gavin Newsom
California’s governor highlighted Rob’s empathy and advocacy for children and civil rights in his tribute.
Sean Astin
SAG-AFTRA president Astin called Reiner “one of the most significant figures in the history of film and television.”
Paul Feig
Feig shared a cherished photo with Reiner, calling him a “true visionary titan.”
John Cusack
Cusack expressed his shock and admiration for Reiner in an X post.
Elijah Wood
Wood sent love to the Reiner family, expressing his horror at the news.
Dane Cook
Cook noted Reiner’s immeasurable impact on television and cinema.
Eric Idle
Idle shared a heartfelt memory of his last conversation with Reiner.
Elizabeth Banks
Banks called Reiner a “genius storyteller” in her Instagram tribute.
Paul Walter Hauser
Hauser shared a personal story of meeting Reiner and expressed his grief over the loss.
Josh Gad
Gad described Reiner as “one of the greatest directors of our time” and a beautiful person.
Virginia Madsen
Madsen expressed her sorrow and gratitude for the joy Reiner brought to the world.
Billy Baldwin
Baldwin offered love and prayers to those who loved Reiner during this tragic time.
Roseanne Barr
Barr described the news as a travesty and extended sympathies to the Reiner family.
Ron Howard
Howard shared memories of his career intersections with Reiner, praising his contributions to the industry.
Mira Sorvino
Sorvino expressed her shock and sorrow, calling Reiner a legend and a kind, brilliant man.
Cheryl Hines
Hines remembered Reiner’s generosity and inspiration in her Instagram tribute.
Michelle Pfeiffer
Pfeiffer shared her thoughts and prayers for the Reiner family, describing the news as “beyond horrific.”
Maria Shriver
Shriver expressed her devastation and praised the Reiners for their friendship and contributions to society.
Sophia Bush
Bush highlighted Reiner’s influence on the industry and his dedication to making the world a better place.
Tracy Reiner
Tracy Reiner, adopted by Rob, expressed her shock and described her family as the greatest ever.
Bill and Hillary Clinton
The Clintons shared their heartbreak, praising the Reiners for inspiring millions through their work and kindness.
Kevin Nealon
Nealon expressed gratitude for Reiner’s contributions, describing him as a smart humorist with real heart.
Jane Fonda
Fonda shared her grief and praised the Reiners for their generosity and ideas for a better world.
Demi Moore
Moore paid tribute to the Reiners, cherishing the moments and memories shared with them.
Paul McCartney
McCartney reflected on his collaboration with Reiner on Spinal Tap II, calling him an upbeat, lovable man.
Kate Hudson
Hudson shared her devastation over the loss, praising Reiner’s impact on the community and the world.
Jerry Seinfeld
Seinfeld credited Reiner with saving his sitcom from cancellation and praised the couple’s partnership.
