Nick Reiner, 32, has made his initial court appearance after being charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of his parents, acclaimed actor-director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner. The arraignment has been postponed until January, and Reiner, who is being held without bail, did not enter a plea.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed charges on Tuesday, including two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances of multiple murders and a special allegation for the use of a deadly weapon, a knife.
Authorities confirmed the Reiners were found dead in their Brentwood home on 14 December. Their daughter, Romy, reportedly discovered her father’s body after a massage therapist could not access the home for a scheduled appointment. Emergency responders then found Michele Singer Reiner’s body inside the residence. Investigators later determined that Nick Reiner was responsible for the deaths and arrested him the same evening.
In a statement, the couple’s children, Romy, 27, and Jake, 34, expressed gratitude for the support they have received. They asked for privacy, compassion, and for their parents to be remembered for the lives they led and the love they gave.
“Words cannot describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day,” the siblings said. “The loss of our parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, is something no one should ever endure. They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends.”
During a news conference, Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized that “charges are not evidence” and that all proof will be presented in court to meet the standard of “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Nick Reiner’s defense attorney, Alan Jackson, noted outside court that the case involves “very complex and serious issues” and called the incident a “devastating tragedy” for the entire Reiner family.
Nick Reiner has a history of drug abuse and mental health struggles. He co-wrote Being Charlie, a film directed by his father that drew inspiration from his personal experiences with addiction and mental health, as well as his relationship with Rob Reiner.
Rob Reiner, a celebrated Hollywood director, is known for classics like This is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, and The Princess Bride. Michele Singer Reiner was a photographer and producer, notable for her portrait of Donald Trump featured on his book The Art of the Deal. The couple were also active supporters of liberal causes.
The tragic killings have shocked Hollywood. Friends including Larry David, Billy Crystal, Albert Brooks, and Martin Short issued a statement honoring Rob Reiner’s legendary comedic talent and the couple’s lifelong dedication to others.
