Rob Reiner, the celebrated director of classics like ‘The Princess Bride’ and ‘Misery,’ and his wife Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Dec. 14, sparking an investigation that points to possible stab wounds.
The Los Angeles Police Department announced that paramedics were called to the Brentwood residence around 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 14. Police officers arrived shortly after and discovered two deceased individuals. The couple was identified as Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, though the department has not released their identities.
A source close to the family told NBC News that the bodies showed signs consistent with stab wounds. The investigation is ongoing, and the LAPD has not named a suspect or detained anyone. Authorities are interviewing family members to gather further details.
Deputy Police Chief Alan Hamilton told reporters that officials have not identified a suspect and that no one has been detained. He added that family members will be interviewed as part of the inquiry.
Tracy Reiner, the eldest daughter, expressed her shock to NBC News. “I came from the greatest family ever,” she said. “I don’t know what to say, I’m in shock.” The statement reflects the profound loss felt by the family.
Tracy added that she had seen her father just a day earlier at a family gathering, making the tragedy even more immediate for her. The timing of the discovery has left the family grappling with sudden grief.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass released a statement praising Rob Reiner’s contributions. “An acclaimed actor, director, producer, writer, and engaged political activist, (Rob) always used his gifts in service of others,” she said, highlighting his public service alongside his artistic achievements.
Actress Kathy Bates, who starred in ‘Misery,’ sent a heartfelt message to NBC News. “Absolutely devastated,” she wrote. “I loved Rob. He 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. He changed the course of my life. Michelle was a gifted photographer. She shot my beautiful photos for the Misery campaign. My heart breaks for them both.”
Reiner’s filmography includes iconic titles such as ‘The Princess Bride,’ ‘When Harry Met Sally,’ ‘A Few Good Men,’ ‘Stand by Me,’ ‘This is Spinal Tap,’ and ‘Misery.’ His work spans comedy, drama, and satire, earning him acclaim across multiple genres.
Beyond directing, Reiner was a comedic actor, notably on the sitcom ‘All in the Family,’ and appeared in movies like ‘The Wolf of Wall Street.’ He also contributed to the Hulu series ‘The Bear,’ appearing in four episodes during the current year, and was part of the sequel to ‘Spinal Tap.’
Rob Reiner was married to director Penny Marshall until their divorce in 1981. He adopted Tracy Reiner during that marriage. He later married Michele Singer in 1989, and the couple had three children—Nick, Jake, and Romy—who were part of the family’s public life.
The three children joined their parents on the red carpet for the premiere of ‘Spinal Tap II: The End Continues’ on Sept. 9 in Los Angeles, showcasing the family’s collective engagement with the film industry.
In 2016, Reiner directed ‘Being Charlie,’ a film co-written by his son Nick that chronicles a young man’s struggle with drug addiction. The story was based on Nick’s personal experiences, and he had entered rehab 17 times before achieving sobriety at 19. Reiner reflected, “It was very personal,” he told TODAY. “What I didn’t understand is the depth of what (Nick) was going through.”
The sudden loss of Rob and Michele Reiner has left a void in both the cinematic world and the families who loved them. As investigations continue, the Hollywood community mourns a director whose work resonated across generations.
Key Takeaways
- Rob Reiner (78) and wife Michele Singer Reiner (65) found dead Dec. 14 in Los Angeles home; investigation points to stab wounds.
- Family reaction: Tracy Reiner expressed shock and noted seeing her father the day before.
- Tributes: Mayor Karen Bass, Kathy Bates, and Hollywood peers highlighted Reiner’s artistic and activist legacy.
The tragedy underscores the fragility of life, even for those who have shaped culture, and the investigation remains open as authorities seek answers.
Hi, I’m Cameron R. Hayes, the journalist, editor, and creator behind NewsOfFortWorth.com. I built this platform with a simple purpose — to deliver fast, clear, and trustworthy news that keeps Fort Worth informed and connected.
I’ve spent more than five years working in digital media, reporting on breaking news, local government, public safety, business growth, community events, and the real stories that shape life in Fort Worth. My goal has always been the same: to provide accurate, community-focused reporting that people can rely on every day.
