The entertainment world is mourning the loss of acclaimed director and actor Rob Reiner, who was found dead at his home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, on December 14, 2023. Longtime friends and collaborators Billy Crystal and Larry David were seen visiting Reiner’s residence shortly after the news broke, underscoring the profound impact of his sudden passing.
Video footage from ABC 7 captured Crystal, 77, and his wife, Janice Crystal, walking near Reiner’s home. Janice, 76, appeared visibly emotional. A neighbor described Billy as “looking like he was about to cry,” revealing the gravity of the situation as friends and family grappled with the loss.
The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene around 15:30 local time, where they discovered two people—aged 78 and 68—unresponsive. Initially, their identities were not released, but it was later confirmed by a family spokesperson that both Rob and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were the deceased. A statement released to Variety expressed the family’s sorrow: “We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.”
Reiner’s eldest daughter, Tracy Reiner, shared her shock in a statement to NBC News. She recounted a family gathering just one day prior to her father’s death, saying, “I came from the greatest family ever. I don’t know what to say. I’m in shock.” Rob Reiner, who was married to Penny Marshall from 1971 until their divorce in 1981, is survived by four children, including sons Jake and Nick and daughter Romy, whom he shared with Michele.
Investigation Underway
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Rob and Michele are under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department. Deputy Chief Alan S. Hamilton confirmed during a press conference that the couple was found with “apparent stab wounds.” The police have not identified any suspects or persons of interest at this stage of the investigation.
Rob Reiner was celebrated for his directorial work on iconic films such as The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, and This Is Spinal Tap. He also maintained a successful acting career, appearing in notable projects like the television series New Girl and the film The Wolf of Wall Street, where he starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio.
Following the announcement of his death, numerous Hollywood figures paid tribute to Reiner. Actress Kathy Bates, who won an Academy Award for her role in Reiner’s film Misery, expressed her admiration in a statement to NBC News. “I loved Rob. He was brilliant and kind, a man who made films of every genre to challenge himself as an artist,” she said, also remembering Michele as a talented photographer.
As the investigation continues, the loss of Rob and Michele Reiner resonates deeply within the entertainment community, highlighting the personal and professional legacy left by a director known for his profound storytelling and impact on film.
