Tragic Loss of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner
Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were spending quality family time just weeks before their tragic deaths.
Cinematographer Barry Markowitz, a close friend and collaborator of Rob, shared insights with Page Six about his recent stay at their Brentwood, California home.
“I might have been one of the last to see them,” Markowitz revealed in a phone interview on Tuesday.
Recent Visit to the Reiner Household
Markowitz recounted that Rob had invited him to stay at their home during the November 14 premiere of his latest film, “The Perfect Gamble.”
“They insisted, ‘You’re staying here. No hotel for you. There’s no family, no fridge, no good toilet paper there,'” the Tel Aviv-based director of photography recalled.
During his stay, Markowitz joined Rob, Michele, and their children—Nick, 32, and Romy, 28—while their other son Jake, 34, was occupied with work.
Family Time and Reflections
Markowitz described their time together as filled with family activities and casual interactions. “Romy would come by at dinner, and we’d all chat together,” he said.
“We watched movies, basketball, played with the dogs. It was a family gathering full of love.”
He noted that Nick, who had struggled with addiction, appeared to be improving. “He looked great and was engaging with the family,” Markowitz observed. “They shared meals together, full of love.”
During his visit, Nick was active, playing tennis and basketball, and participating in household activities.
“He helped with chores, watched TV, and was just part of the family,” Markowitz recalled. “Everything seemed normal.”
Markowitz noted no unusual dynamics within the family. “They were busy with their routines, and everything seemed typical,” he said.
Unexpected Tragedy
Markowitz described his stay as enjoyable and full of love, making the tragic events even more puzzling.
“The love in that house was genuine,” he reflected, following Nick’s arrest on charges of murdering his parents.
“Mental illness is a sickness,” he added, regarding Nick’s mental state.
Markowitz emphasized that Rob and Michele never gave up on Nick, supporting him through his addiction struggles.
“They tried everything for him, sending him to the best facilities, never losing hope,” he explained.
Markowitz praised Michele as the “strength and rock” of the family.
Reflections on Family Dynamics
Markowitz, who worked on “Being Charlie” with Rob and Nick, denied any tension on set.
“We were like a family, no fights,” he stated.
He expressed disbelief that Nick would harm his parents, despite past incidents.
Ongoing Investigation
Nick’s arrest has left many questions. “Mental illness doesn’t need a reason,” Markowitz explained.
Having worked closely with Rob, Markowitz is deeply affected by the loss. “I can’t believe they’re gone,” he said.
Rob and Michele were found stabbed at their home. Rob was 78, and Michele was 68.
Nick was scheduled for arraignment, but it was postponed due to medical reasons.
Rob and Michele married in 1989 and had three children together. Rob also adopted a daughter from his previous marriage.
