Entertainment industry power couple Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in a small plane crash. Their remains were found last month at their home in Brentwood, California. The couple’s deaths were announced by a family spokesperson on Sunday evening, sending waves of grief and disbelief through their community of Highland Park, Mich., and the nation.
Rob Reiner, 78, is an acclaimed film director. He is probably best known for such classics as “When Harry Met Sally” and “Stand by Me.” Michele Singer Reiner, 68, was an accomplished artist and photographer. Her extraordinary body of work includes a famously candid portrait of Donald Trump that appeared as the cover image for his book, “The Art of the Deal.” The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call for medical aid to their residence at approximately 3:30 PM local time.
Tragically, the only child of the couple, Romy, who lives right across the street, found her parents’ bodies. What is known about the circumstances of their deaths has not been made public. In her absence, this has triggered an outpouring of grief and sympathy towards the family.
Michele’s family is extremely saddened by the untimely death of Michele. It is with great sadness that we share this news. She stressed the family’s desire for privacy as they cope with a tragic loss. We are devastated by this tragic loss, and we request that the media respect our privacy during this profoundly painful time.
Nick Reiner, 32 — son of noted filmmaker Rob Reiner — was arrested in the wake of their deaths. In response to the incident and for failing to provide notice, authorities charged him as a gang felony with $4 million bail. Nick Reiner is an accomplished screenwriter. He co-wrote and starred alongside his father in the movie Being Charlie, which takes inspiration from his own fight with addiction and experience living on the streets. By the age of 22, he had been in more than 17 different rehabilitation facilities.
Though his family background was privileged, Nick Reiner struggled deeply with his mental health. I have a wonderful background and family. I don’t think I should be doing what I’m doing,” he said, looking back on his chaotic past, which included years of homelessness and addiction.
Additionally, Rob Reiner had been pretty vocal about his son’s public battle with addiction in interviews. He bemoaned that as much as they wanted to fix him, they tried to do it without considering his emotional state. He recounted in a recent conversation, “When Nick told us it wasn’t working for him, we were dismissive. He noted their desperation in seeking help for Nick: “We were desperate and because the people had diplomas on their wall, we listened to them when we should have been listening to our son.”
In 1989, one couple’s love story ignited behind the scenes of “When Harry Met Sally.” Their other best mutual friend, director Barry Sonnenfeld, made the fateful introduction. Rob Reiner’s union with her spanned decades and produced a beautiful, blended family. She introduced him to actress Tracy Reiner, who became his adoptive daughter from his first marriage to Penny Marshall.
During this terrible time, Rob Reiner was candid about the uphill battle he’s fighting. He is equally resolved to shepherd his own children through their own entertainment careers. He didn’t cut his gains like he should have. Therefore, Ms. They both want careers, they’re both talented. Should I lean into it? Should I back away from it? They’re confused. I told them to invite, when they figure out their own way it won’t be my problem,” he recalled.
As investigations into the circumstances surrounding their deaths continue, friends, family members, and fans alike are coming together to remember both Rob and Michele Reiner for their contributions to film and photography.