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Monday 23/02/2026

Nick Reiner Charged with Murder of Parents Rob and Michele Reiner

Nick Reiner stands beside shadowy outlines of his parents in a courtroom.
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Nick Reiner has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, in their Brentwood home.
  • The charges include a special circumstance of multiple murders and an allegation of using a deadly weapon, specifically a knife.
  • If convicted, Nick Reiner could face life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
  • The case has deeply affected Hollywood, with tributes pouring in from celebrities like Barack Obama and Jerry Seinfeld.
  • Nick Reiner's arraignment has been delayed pending medical clearance, and he remains in custody without bail.

Nick Reiner, the son of acclaimed Hollywood director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder following the discovery of his parents' bodies in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home. The charges, announced by Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman, include a special circumstance of multiple murders and a special allegation of using a knife as a deadly weapon.

Details of the Case

The tragic incident unfolded on December 14, when police responded to a call at the Reiner residence and found the couple with fatal stab wounds. Nick Reiner, 32, was arrested later that evening and has been held without bail since. His arraignment has been postponed until he receives medical clearance, according to his defense attorney, Alan Jackson.

Impact on Hollywood

The deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner have sent shockwaves through Hollywood, prompting an outpouring of tributes from friends and colleagues. Former President Barack Obama described the Reiners as "decent, courageous people" who lived lives "defined by purpose." Jerry Seinfeld credited Rob Reiner with saving his sitcom from cancellation, highlighting the director's significant impact on the entertainment industry.

A Storied Legacy

Rob Reiner was renowned for his work both in front of and behind the camera, with credits including "This is Spinal Tap," "When Harry Met Sally," and "The Princess Bride." Michele Singer Reiner was a respected photographer and producer, known for her portrait work and contributions to her husband's films. The couple's deaths have left a void in the creative community, with friends like Billy Crystal and Larry David remembering Rob as a master storyteller and a beloved figure in comedy.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case against Nick Reiner could have significant implications for the use of the death penalty in California, a state where its application remains a contentious issue. The high-profile nature of the case may also influence public opinion on mental health and addiction, given Nick Reiner's past struggles in these areas. Legal experts suggest that the defense may explore these aspects as mitigating factors during the trial. Meanwhile, the Hollywood community continues to mourn the loss of two influential figures, with their legacy likely to inspire future generations of filmmakers and artists.