Former Real Housewives of New York star Bethenny Frankel has ignited a fierce online debate after sharing her thoughts on the shocking murders of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele. The 55-year-old businesswoman is facing accusations of victim blaming for comments made in a social media video posted just days after the tragedy.
The Tragic Event and Frankel's Controversial Advice
Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Reiner, 70, were found stabbed to death inside their Los Angeles mansion on December 14. Their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, who has a known history of drug addiction and mental health struggles, was arrested and charged with their murders. He is being held without bail.
In a video uploaded on Monday, Frankel used the case as a cautionary tale, urging her followers to always act on their intuition. "If you feel alarmed by something and something makes you feel uncomfortable... If you see something, you say something, or you avoid something, or you protect yourself," she stated. Frankel suggested such feelings of danger could arise from situations like a relationship breakup or a child 'acting out'.
Social Media Backlash and Frankel's Defence
While some viewers agreed with her message about trusting gut instinct, many others criticised the timing and implication of her words. One user directly accused her of victim blaming, commenting, "Careful, this sounds like victim blaming. Too soon B, too soon."
Frankel responded bluntly to the accusation, replying, "You literally are on the wrong street." Other critics questioned her motives and lack of direct sympathy for the victims. "Not the time to be saying this, God forbid you could wait a week to get clicks and likes," one wrote. Another added, "Hmm? No sympathy for the Reiners' horrific murder? Just talking about yourself."
A Family Tragedy and a Hollywood Legacy
The Reiner family confirmed the deaths in a heartbroken statement, requesting privacy. Rob Reiner was the celebrated filmmaker behind iconic 80s and 90s movies including Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, and When Harry Met Sally. The couple were reportedly due to meet with the Obamas just hours before their bodies were discovered.
Nick Reiner made his first court appearance on the morning of Monday, December 18th. The case has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and raised difficult questions about mental health, addiction, and familial violence.
