Rob Reiner, celebrated filmmaker and actor, and his wife Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on December 14, 2025, in an apparent double homicide. The couple’s 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, was arrested later that night and is being held without bail on murder charges.

The tragedy unfolded in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, where first responders arrived at the Reiners’ residence in the afternoon after a report of a medical emergency. Inside, authorities discovered both Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 68, with what investigators described as fatal stab wounds. Their daughter, Romy Reiner, reportedly found their bodies.

Los Angeles police quickly treated the scene as a homicide investigation, and by evening, detectives had located Nick Reiner in the vicinity of the University of Southern California, taken him into custody and booked him on suspicion of murder. He remains jailed and was not medically cleared for his initial court appearance, according to authorities.

Rob Reiner’s death stunned Hollywood and the wider public. He had enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades, starting as a young actor and emerging as one of the most influential voices in American film and television. Born in New York City in 1947 to legendary comedian Carl Reiner and Estelle Reiner, he got his start in front of the camera, winning attention as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom All in the Family. His early success on television laid the foundation for a remarkable breadth of work that followed.

Reiner’s impact grew exponentially when he moved behind the camera. He directed a string of films that have become part of the cultural fabric, combining humor, heart and insight. He co-wrote and directed This Is Spinal Tap, a 1984 mockumentary that remains one of the most beloved and imitated comedies in film history. He helmed Stand by Me in 1986, a coming-of-age drama that showcased his ability to tell deeply human stories with emotional resonance.

In 1987 he directed The Princess Bride, a whimsical adventure that became a treasured classic, admired for its combination of romance, fantasy and sharp wit. Reiner also directed When Harry Met Sally…, a romantic comedy that helped define the genre, and A Few Good Men, a riveting courtroom drama that cemented his reputation for guiding actors to memorable performances. A Few Good Men was also one of the films he directed that received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.

Reiner’s body of work blended genres and showcased his versatility: from heartfelt drama to irreverent comedy, from emotional character work to satirical commentary. Along the way he earned numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Emmys, a Hugo Award, and recognition from the British Academy and Golden Globes. His films often balanced mainstream appeal with thoughtful storytelling that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Michele Singer Reiner, his wife of 36 years, was equally admired in her own right. A talented photographer and producer, she initially met Rob on the set of When Harry Met Sally… in 1989 and went on to build her own respected career. Her work included photography for notable projects and producing in the 2010s. She was also involved in political and cultural activism alongside her husband, championing causes related to LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

The Reiners raised three children together: Jake, Nick and Romy, and Rob was also father to Tracy Reiner from his earlier marriage to Penny Marshall, the late actress and director. Rob and Nick Reiner had collaborated professionally on the 2015 film Being Charlie, a semi-autobiographical drama that explored themes of addiction and family, drawn in part from Nick’s own struggles. The relationship between father and son, while fraught at times, was publicly discussed by both men in interviews about the film.

In the weeks leading up to their deaths, Rob and Michele were seen together at public events, including the premiere of Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, a sequel to the original mockumentary that he directed. Their deaths just days after that event deepened the sense of shock among colleagues and fans.

Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry and political world as friends and collaborators remembered Reiner for his generosity, sharp wit and creative influence. Prominent figures spoke of his unique ability to tell stories that brought people together, and his passion for both art and civic engagement. Officials and public figures also expressed sorrow at the tragic loss, acknowledging the reach of his work and the impact he had on culture.

Family members have asked for privacy as they grieve an unimaginable loss. The investigation into the murders continues, with prosecutors weighing charges and awaiting further evidence as the case progresses through the Los Angeles criminal justice system.

Rob Reiner’s legacy is one of storytelling that spanned generations. His films defined moments in the movie landscape, were quoted by fans around the world and brought laughter and meaning into countless homes. His death, alongside Michele’s in such violent circumstances, marks a heartbreaking end to one of Hollywood’s most influential careers and leaves a remarkable body of work that will continue to influence audiences and artists for years to come.