Legendary filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday, police and family sources say.
The couple, aged 78 and 68 respectively, were discovered with wounds consistent with a knife attack, and authorities are now treating the case as an apparent homicide.
Emergency responders were called to the Brentwood neighbourhood of Los Angeles around 3:30 p.m. local time on Sunday after a medical aid request, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Once inside the property, firefighters located the bodies of a man and a woman. The Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division later took over the investigation.
The family of Reiner released a statement expressing profound sorrow and asking for privacy during this difficult time. No official suspect has been identified by police, and no arrests have been confirmed.
Law enforcement is continuing its investigation with support from senior LAPD officials.
A Storied Career in Film and Television
Rob Reiner was one of Hollywood’s most recognisable figures, with a career spanning more than five decades. He first rose to fame as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom All in the Family, a role that earned him two Emmy Awards and made him a household name.
In the 1980s, Reiner successfully transitioned into directing. His debut feature, the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap (1984), became a cult favourite. He went on to helm critically and commercially acclaimed films including Stand By Me (1986), The Princess Bride (1987), and the romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally… (1989). Later works included A Few Good Men (1992) and other notable Hollywood titles.
Alongside his creative work, Reiner co-founded Castle Rock Entertainment, a production company behind successful projects such as Seinfeld and The Shawshank Redemption, further embedding his influence in both film and television.
Personal Life and Public Reaction
Reiner met Michele Singer during the making of When Harry Met Sally… and the couple married in 1989. They had three children together. Reiner was also known for his political activism, particularly around social justice causes and support for Democratic candidates over many years.
News of the couple’s deaths has drawn an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues and political figures. Los Angeles officials described the loss as devastating, highlighting Reiner’s impact on American culture through his films and activism.
The LAPD has urged the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues. Officials say they are working to establish a clear timeline and determine the cause of the fatal injuries, with further details expected following medical examinations and ongoing police work. 