The entertainment world is reeling from a horrific tragedy after acclaimed actor and director Rob Reiner and his wife, photographer Michele Singer Reiner, were found murdered in their Los Angeles home. Their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, has been charged with the double homicide.
Charges and Arrest in Brentwood Murder Case
On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced that Nick Reiner faces two counts of first-degree murder with the special circumstance of multiple murders. The charges include a special allegation for using a dangerous weapon, identified as a knife.
Nick Reiner has been in custody since Sunday evening, just hours after the couple's bodies were discovered. He is currently being held without bail. His defence attorney, Alan Jackson, stated his client was not medically cleared to appear in court on Tuesday, with proceedings expected to begin by Wednesday.
A Shocking Discovery and a Family in Crisis
The grim discovery was made on Sunday afternoon. The couple's daughter, Romy Reiner, reportedly found her parents' bodies at their Brentwood residence and immediately contacted the police. Officers responded shortly before 4pm and confirmed the couple had suffered fatal stab wounds.
According to reports from the Los Angeles Times, tensions within the family were evident. Nick Reiner was allegedly living at the family property, and Michele Reiner had recently expressed concerns about his mental health. The evening before the killings, Rob and Nick Reiner were heard arguing at a Christmas party at comedian Conan O'Brien's home.
Hollywood Mourns an Iconic Filmmaker and Advocate
The news has sent profound shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond. Rob Reiner, 76, was a beloved figure, famous for his Emmy-winning role in All in the Family and for directing classic films like This Is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, and The Princess Bride. Michele Singer Reiner was an accomplished photographer, notably taking the portrait of Donald Trump used on his book The Art of the Deal, and also produced some of her husband's films.
The couple were married for over 35 years and were prominent supporters of liberal political causes. Former US President Barack Obama led tributes, stating the Reiners "lived lives defined by purpose" and praising Rob's "deep belief in the goodness of people."
District Attorney Nathan Hochman called the murders "shocking and tragic," vowing to pursue justice. "Prosecuting cases involving family violence are some of the most challenging and heart-wrenching we face," he added.
In a poignant and tragic footnote, Rob and Nick Reiner had previously collaborated on a 2015 film based on Nick's past struggles with addiction and homelessness.
