The children of Hollywood director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Reiner have broken their silence, sharing a statement of "unimaginable pain" following the couple's violent deaths at their Los Angeles home.
A Heartbreaking Family Statement
In their first public words since the tragedy, siblings Jake and Romy Reiner described the profound loss of their parents, who were found stabbed to death last Sunday. The couple were discovered at their Brentwood home by their 28-year-old daughter, Romy.
"Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day," the brother and sister said. "The horrific and devastating loss of our parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, is something that no one should ever experience. They weren't just our parents; they were our best friends."
The statement expressed gratitude for the public support and requested privacy, asking that speculation be tempered with compassion. It concluded with a plea to remember their parents for "the incredible lives they lived and the love they gave."
Son Charged with First-Degree Murder
Nick Reiner, 32, has been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths. He made his first court appearance on Wednesday, where he waived his right to enter a plea.
According to reports from the BBC, Nick Reiner appeared shirtless and in handcuffs, his face described as 'blank'. He was reportedly wearing a suicide prevention smock. His attorney, Alan Jackson – who has represented high-profile clients including Harvey Weinstein – told the court it was "too early" for a plea.
The court hearing was brief, with Reiner only confirming he understood his right to a speedy trial. The case has been adjourned until a hearing on January 7.
A Legacy Remembered by Friends
The family's tragedy has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, prompting a moving tribute from close friends of the Reiners. The couple met on the set of Rob's iconic film When Harry Met Sally and married in 1989.
A letter signed by friends including Billy Crystal, Martin Short, and Larry David celebrated Rob Reiner's unparalleled career. "There is no other director who has his range," it read, praising his work from comedy to drama. It highlighted his collaborative spirit and his and Michele's shared dedication to philanthropy and civic engagement.
The tribute poignantly referenced a line from It's a Wonderful Life, one of Rob's favourite films: "Each man's life touches so many other lives, and when he isn't around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?" The friends added, "You have no idea."
The investigation into the deaths of Rob, 78, and Michele, 68, continues as their family, friends, and fans worldwide mourn an irreplaceable loss.
