CBS is set to honor the life and work of Rob Reiner with a special primetime tribute following the news of his death. The network confirmed that “CBS News: Rob Reiner – Scenes From a Life,” a one-hour retrospective celebrating the acclaimed actor, director, and filmmaker, will air Sunday, December 21 at 8:30 p.m. ET and 8:00 p.m. PT on CBS, with streaming available on Paramount+.
The program will replace previously scheduled content and offer viewers a chance to look back on Reiner’s remarkable career and the lasting impact he made on film, television, and American storytelling.
A Primetime Farewell From CBS News
GettyThe tribute offers an intimate look at Rob Reiner’s life and legacy through the voices of those who knew him best. Newly recorded interviews feature Albert Brooks, Kathy Bates, Annette Bening, Michael Douglas, Mandy Patinkin, Kiefer Sutherland, and Jerry O’Connell, each reflecting on Reiner as a creative force, trusted collaborator, and intensely loyal friend.
The special also allows Reiner to tell parts of his own story. It draws from CBS News’ extensive interview archives, including moments where he speaks candidly about his career, his passions, and the values that guided his work.
Reiner’s Final Interviews and Rare Archival Footage
The hour includes clips from Reiner’s final sit-down with “60 Minutes” correspondent Lesley Stahl earlier this fall. The interview now serves as one of his last on-camera reflections, offering insight into his creative process, values, and love for storytelling.
By weaving new conversations with archival moments, the special creates an intimate portrait of a filmmaker who remained deeply engaged with his work until the end.
The tribute revisits the projects that cemented Reiner’s place in Hollywood history. These include “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally,” “Misery,” “Stand by Me,” “This Is Spinal Tap” and “The American President.”
It also looks back at Reiner’s early fame as Archie Bunker’s son-in-law on “All in the Family,” where he first became a household name. Together, these moments highlight a career marked by range, emotional intelligence, and cultural relevance.
A Tribute Following Tragic Loss
The CBS tribute arrives amid devastating news confirmed earlier this week. Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday, December 14. Authorities have since confirmed that their son, Nick Reiner, has been arrested in connection with their deaths. The investigation remains ongoing.
As an actor, director, filmmaker and humanitarian, Reiner left an indelible mark on entertainment and on those who worked alongside him. “CBS News: Rob Reiner – Scenes From a Life” stands as both a celebration and a farewell, honoring a storyteller whose films and values continue to resonate across generations.
The special airs Sunday, Dec. 21, at 8:30 p.m. ET and 8:00 p.m. PT on CBS and streams on Paramount+.
Brought me great sadness watching here in New York. These absolutely amazing parents were filled with so much love for this life. They loved their children deeply. I believe that Rob and Michele loved Nick unconditionally. I saw the darkness in his eyes. Parents protect their children. This is devastating. My heart and love go out to Romy and Jake. May God shine over the family to give them strength and send angels to comfort them. The show touched me emotionally. Thank you CBS.