Legendary filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Los Angeles home Sunday, December 14, sparking an outpouring of grief and remembrance from colleagues, fans and fellow performers.
Actor and director Ben Stiller shared a touching post remembering Reiner on social media.
“What a huge loss,” Stiller began.
“Rob Reiner was one of my favorite directors. He made some of the most formative movies for my generation,” he added. “He came out form behind a huge comedic shadow of the great Carl Reiner and being a tv actor to being a a great director who made an incredible run of movies.”
Stiller mentioned how he believes Reiner made some of films, and cited “Spinal Tap” as on the the best comedies.
He described Reiner as “a kind caring person who was really really funny.”
The 60-year-old added, “I didn’t know him well but was always a fan and I feel a real sadness for those who did, and his family.”
Hollywood Reacts
Reiner’s influence extended across genres and generations.
“Stand by Me” actor Jerry O’Connell said he felt as though “a parent has passed,” recalling Reiner’s mentorship and the impact he had on his early acting career.
Other actors, including Elijah Wood and Josh Gad, reflected on the joy and inspiration Reiner brought both on and off the set of his films.
Sean Astin expressed his sadness over the loss.
Political leaders also paid tribute to Reiner’s legacy, underscoring his work beyond the entertainment industry.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said he is “heartbroken by the tragic loss,” while former President Barack Obama highlighted the filmmaker’s deep belief in the goodness of people and his lifelong commitment to giving back.
Michele Singer Reiner, a photographer and longtime partner in Reiner’s life and career, was remembered by friends and family for her creativity and support of her husband’s work.
In the wake of the tragedy, friends and collaborators from across Hollywood have expressed shock and sorrow, describing both Reiner and his wife as beloved figures whose impact will endure through their work and the lives they touched.
The Family Reiner & His Wife Leave Behind
Reiner and his wife leave behind three children. Two boys, Jake and Nick, and a daughter Romy.
Nick is currently in policy custody in connection to their deaths.
Reiner also has a daughter Tracy, who he adopted during his first marriage to Penny Marshall, released a statement after her dad’s death.
“I came from the greatest family ever,” she said. “I don’t know what to say. I’m in shock.”
In addition, she revealed she saw her dad just a day prior at a family gathering.
