Apparent Homicide Investigation
Director and actor Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife Michele Reiner, 68, were discovered deceased on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at their residence in Los Angeles. Law enforcement officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing investigation, confirmed their identities.
Authorities suspect the couple sustained stab wounds. A family member is currently being questioned by investigators regarding the incident.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported responding to a medical aid request at the home shortly after 3:30 p.m. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found both individuals deceased. Rob Reiner had turned 78 in March.
The Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Robbery Homicide Division is leading the investigation into what has been described as an "apparent homicide" at the Reiners' home. The residence is located in the upscale Brentwood neighborhood on the west side of Los Angeles. Authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the identities of the deceased.
Rob Reiner's Career and Legacy
Rob Reiner was a prominent figure in Hollywood, known for both his acting and directing career. As a director, his notable works include "This is Spinal Tap," "A Few Good Men," "When Harry Met Sally," and "The Princess Bride."
He gained initial fame for his role as Michael "Meathead" Stivic in the 1970s television series "All in the Family," which earned him two Emmy Awards.
The family of legendary producer Norman Lear, who passed away in 2023, issued a statement acknowledging Reiner's close relationship with Lear, often referred to as a son. The statement highlighted Reiner and Michele's dedication to societal improvement through their artistic contributions, activism, philanthropy, and personal relationships.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also commented on the deaths, recognizing Reiner's contributions to American culture and society through his creative work and advocacy for social and economic justice. She described him as an acclaimed actor, director, producer, writer, and political activist who utilized his talents to benefit others.
Personal Background
Rob Reiner was the son of comedy legend Carl Reiner. He had been married to photographer Michele Singer Reiner since 1989, and they had three children together. Their meeting occurred during the production of "When Harry Met Sally."
Prior to this marriage, Reiner was married to actor-director Penny Marshall from 1971 to 1981, and he adopted her daughter, Tracy Reiner. His father, Carl Reiner, passed away in 2020 at the age of 98, and Penny Marshall died in 2018.
Fatal incidents are uncommon in the Brentwood area. The location of the Reiner residence is approximately one mile from the site where Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were killed in 1994.