Rob Reiner, Acclaimed Director of ‘This Is Spinal Tap,’ and Wife Michele Found Dead in Los Angeles Residence

Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead afternoon, December 14, inside their Brentwood, California, home. The news spread through film and music circles.

Early reports stated that the couple’s bodies were discovered by one of their daughters inside the residence. Authorities indicated that both showed signs of being stabbed. The case is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery Homicide Division, according to TMZ.

The Discovery and Initial Reports

TMZ was the first outlet to report that two bodies were found at the Reiners’ home on Sunday afternoon. Law enforcement sources later confirmed the identities of the victims to the Associated Press, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

Soon after the news broke, the Reiner family released a statement through Variety confirming the deaths. The statement read: “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.”

The Latest on the Investigation

UPDATE (12/15 at 9:45 a.m. CST): Reports stated that Nick Reiner, the son of Rob Reiner, had been taken into custody and was being held on $4 million bail. His arrest has not been officially confirmed by authorities.

Online booking records show that Nick Reiner was arrested Sunday night and booked early Monday morning on felony charges. ABC News reported that the charge was listed as “suspicion of murder.” He is being held at the Parker Center Jail in Downtown Los Angeles.

Official Statements From Police

UPDATE (12/14 at 11:23 p.m. CST): During a Sunday evening press conference, LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton addressed questions surrounding the case. “We are not looking for anyone as a suspect or in any other manner at this time,” Hamilton said.

When asked about reports suggesting a family member was being questioned, Hamilton said the investigation was still in early stages. “We’re going to try to speak to every family member that we can to get to the facts of this investigation,” he said, adding that no one had been detained or interviewed “as a suspect.”

 

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Rob Reiner’s Career

Reiner began his career as an actor and became known for his role on the television series “All in the Family.” He appeared on the show for nine seasons and earned two Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Michael “Meathead” Stivic.

He later worked as a writer on television before moving into directing. His directing credits include This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Stand By Me, Misery, and A Few Good Men.

Family Life

Reiner met Michele Singer while directing When Harry Met Sally in 1988. The couple married the following year and had three children.

Reiner was previously married to actress Penny Marshall. During that marriage, he adopted her daughter, Tracy. The family has requested privacy as the investigation continues.