Legendary Hollywood filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Reiner have been found dead in their Los Angeles home, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
Police and firefighters were called to the couple’s residence in Brentwood, an affluent Los Angeles neighbourhood, on Sunday afternoon following a medical emergency call. A 78-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not officially identified the couple or disclosed the cause of death, but confirmed that robbery homicide detectives have opened an investigation. No arrests have been made, and police say there is currently no suspect or person of interest.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department said the emergency call was received at about 3:38pm local time. More than six hours later, police said both bodies remained inside the home as investigators continued their work.
In a statement released to US media, a family spokesperson said the couple’s deaths were being mourned privately.
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner. We are heartbroken by this sudden loss and ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.
Police declined to provide details on any injuries sustained, whether a weapon was involved, or the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The Los Angeles County coroner is expected to determine the official cause of death.
Tributes Pour In
California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed the deaths and described Reiner as a “big-hearted genius” whose work shaped generations of filmgoers.
Former US President Barack Obama also paid tribute, saying Reiner’s storytelling was driven by a deep belief in human goodness and a lifelong commitment to social causes.
Figures from across the film and television industry expressed shock and grief, including Eric Idle, John Cusack, Ben Stiller, Elijah Wood, James Woods, and Josh Gad, many of whom praised Reiner’s kindness, creativity, and enduring influence.
Rob Reiner, the son of comedy icon Carl Reiner, rose to fame playing Meathead in the groundbreaking sitcom All in the Family, winning two Emmy Awards. He went on to become one of Hollywood’s most respected directors, helming classics such as This Is Spinal Tap, Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Misery, and A Few Good Men.
His films earned critical acclaim and commercial success, including an Academy Award nomination for A Few Good Men. Earlier this year, he reunited with the cast of Spinal Tap for a long-awaited sequel.
Reiner also co-founded Castle Rock Entertainment and remained active as an actor and political advocate throughout his life.
Michele Reiner was an actress, photographer, and producer, and the owner of the Reiner Light photography and production company. The couple married in 1989 and have three children together.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass described their deaths as a devastating loss and praised the couple’s charitable work, including advocacy for childhood development and LGBTQ+ rights.
The investigation into their deaths is ongoing.
