Legendary Hollywood director and actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele have been found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon with knife injuries.
Los Angeles authorities classified the deaths of 78-year-old Rob Reiner and 68-year-old Michele as an apparent homicide due to knife wounds, with no forced entry at their Brentwood residence.
The family spokesperson in a media report announced: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner.
“We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.”
Reports from sources claim their son Nick, who once shared his addiction struggles publicly, is cooperating with police, though no arrests have occurred and LAPD has not confirmed details.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department told the BBC they received a call at about 15:38 local time (23:38 GMT) for medical aid to a home in Brentwood, a neighbourhood that is home to many celebrities.
Robbery homicide detectives from the LA police department also responded to the home and have opened a homicide investigation.
Married since 1989 and parents to three children, the Reiners left behind a legacy of beloved films and advocacy, drawing heartfelt tributes from figures like Barack Obama and Gavin Newsom.
The former U.S President Barack Obama wrote on X: “Michelle and I are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Rob Reiner and his beloved wife, Michele. Rob’s achievements in film and television gave us some of our most cherished stories on screen. But beneath all of the stories he produced was a deep belief in the goodness of people—and a lifelong commitment to putting that belief into action. Together, he and his wife lived lives defined by purpose. They will be remembered for the values they championed and the countless people they inspired. We send our deepest condolences to all who loved them”
California Governor Gavin Newsom mourned the loss of the two prominent figures stating: “Jen and I are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner. Rob was the big-hearted genius behind so many of the classic stories we love, with projects as wide-ranging as The Princess Bride to A Few Good Men.
“His boundless empathy made his stories timeless, teaching generations how to see goodness and righteousness in others — and encouraging us to dream bigger. That empathy extended well beyond his films. Rob was a passionate advocate for children and for civil rights — from taking on Big Tobacco, fighting for marriage equality, to serving as a powerful voice in early education.
“He made California a better place through his good works. Rob will be remembered for his remarkable filmography and for his extraordinary contribution to humanity.”
Reiner is known for directing classic films including The Princess Bride, This is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, Misery and A Few Good Men.