Michelle Obama has revealed that she and her husband, former US President Barack Obama, were scheduled to meet Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele on the very night the couple were found stabbed to death in their Los Angeles home.
A Chilling Coincidence and a Son in Custody
The former First Lady shared the poignant detail during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, paying tribute to friends she described as "some of the most decent, courageous people you ever want to know." The Reiners were discovered deceased on Sunday night, 16 December 2024. Their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Ms Obama's heartfelt comments stood in stark contrast to the reaction from former President Donald Trump. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump suggested the 78-year-old director's death was "reportedly due to the anger he caused" by opposing him, referencing what he termed "Trump derangement syndrome."
Political Tributes and Personal Memories
Pushing back against that characterisation, Michelle Obama stated unequivocally: "They are not deranged or crazed. What they have always been are passionate people in a time when there's not a lot of courage going on." She highlighted their deep care for family, country, and the principles of fairness and equality.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through American political and entertainment circles. Tributes have poured in from across the spectrum, including from former Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton, as well as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Barack Obama added his own remembrance, saying: "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."
A Legacy of Iconic Film and Deep Friendships
Rob Reiner was the celebrated director behind some of Hollywood's most beloved films, including the romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally and the courtroom drama A Few Good Men. His other notable works include The Princess Bride (1987) and the Stephen King adaptations Stand By Me (1986) and Misery (1990).
Personal anecdotes from those who knew him have flooded in. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, who played Reiner's ex-wife in New Girl, recalled the couple as "Passionate. Political. Surrounded by family and friends." Actor Kevin Bacon, who starred in A Few Good Men, shared an emotional video, calling the film shoot "one of the best experiences" of his career.
Author Stephen King and actress Jane Fonda were among the many other high-profile figures to express their horror and grief. The investigation into the double homicide continues as the entertainment world mourns the loss of a formidable creative force and his wife.
