Los Angeles, California – Authorities are investigating a shocking double homicide after legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead inside their Brentwood residence on Sunday afternoon. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been arrested on suspicion of homicide, according to Los Angeles police.
What Police Say Happened
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said officers responded to a call at the Reiner home in the 200 block of Chadbourne Avenue around 3:40 p.m. Upon arrival, police discovered Rob and Michele Reiner deceased inside the home. Law enforcement sources later confirmed that both victims suffered injuries consistent with stabbing.
Nick Reiner, 32, was not at the scene when officers arrived. Police located him later that evening in South Los Angeles near the University of Southern California, roughly 15 miles from the Brentwood home. He was taken into custody around 9:15 p.m.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the Reiners,” McDonnell said at a news conference, describing the case as “a tragic incident.”
Nick Reiner is currently being held in Los Angeles County jail without bail. Authorities have not yet announced a motive.
Ongoing Investigation and Search Warrant
Police confirmed that there were no signs of forced entry at the home, a detail that has become a key focus of the investigation. Investigators have since obtained a search warrant for the property, which McDonnell described as a “critical piece” of the case.
Detectives from the LAPD, along with a U.S. Marshals task force, assisted in locating and arresting Nick Reiner later Sunday evening.
Hollywood and Political Reactions
News of the deaths sent shockwaves through Hollywood and political circles nationwide. Rob Reiner was widely known not only for his acting and directing career but also for his outspoken political activism.
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton released a joint statement expressing grief over the loss.
“They inspired and uplifted millions through their work in film and television,” the statement said, adding that the couple were generous advocates for inclusive democracy.
Political reactions intensified after President Donald Trump made comments on Truth Social suggesting Rob Reiner’s political views played a role in the tragedy. Those remarks drew criticism from both parties, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who called the comments inappropriate.
Family Tensions and Past Struggles
Family friends told the Los Angeles Times that Rob Reiner and his son Nick were involved in an argument at a holiday party the night before the killings. Multiple guests reportedly noticed Nick acting erratically.
Nick Reiner has spoken publicly in the past about his long struggle with substance addiction and mental health issues. Friends said he had been living in a guesthouse on his parents’ property, and Michele Singer Reiner had expressed growing concern about his condition in recent weeks.
The Reiners’ daughter was reportedly the first family member to arrive at the home after the deaths.
A Complicated Father-Son History
Rob Reiner openly discussed his son’s struggles over the years. In 2015, he directed Being Charlie, a semi-autobiographical film co-written by Nick Reiner that explored addiction and family conflict. The project was seen as a step toward healing their relationship.
However, Nick later acknowledged that his recovery was not steady. In a 2018 podcast interview, he described relapses, erratic behavior, and periods of instability that strained his relationship with his parents.
Remembering Rob and Michele Reiner
Rob Reiner, 78, rose to fame as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on All in the Family before becoming one of Hollywood’s most influential directors. His films included When Harry Met Sally, The Princess Bride, and This Is Spinal Tap.
Michele Singer Reiner, 70, was a respected photographer and film producer who worked closely with her husband on multiple projects, including Shock and Awe and Albert Brooks: Defending My Life.
The couple had three children and were married for more than three decades.
A Neighborhood Shaken
As police continued their investigation Monday, neighbors gathered outside the gated property. One resident, Jocelyn McAllister, said the tragedy shattered the sense of safety often associated with the affluent neighborhood.
“You can only do so much as a parent,” she said, reflecting on the challenges families face with addiction and mental illness.
What Comes Next
Authorities say the investigation remains active, and additional details are expected as forensic analysis and interviews continue. Nick Reiner has not yet entered a plea, and prosecutors have not announced formal charges.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department.
Share your thoughts or reflections on this developing story in the comments below.
