Filmmaker Rob Reiner – known to millions as Marti DiBergi – has died alongside his wife Michele.
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Reiner directed a run of films that helped define popular cinema, blending comedy, drama and sharp human insight in ways that continue to resonate.
His work includes This Is Spinal Tap, Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Misery and A Few Good Men.
Few directors have shaped so many genres, or delivered so many enduring classics, in such a concentrated period of time. His films remain cultural touchstones, quoted, referenced and rediscovered by new generations.
Reiner and his wife Michele were found dead at their Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon. Police and firefighters were called to the property where a 78-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have opened a homicide investigation and The Los Angeles coroner’s office will determine the official cause of death.
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At Rewind Classic Movies, our focus will always be on films and the people behind them. Our aim is to celebrate Rob Reiner’s contribution to cinema rather than engage in gossip about his death so we will not repeat unconfirmed rumours or speculation.
In a statement released to US media, a family spokesperson said: “We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.”
Rob Reiner first became famous as an actor, playing Michael “Meathead” Stivic in the landmark sitcom All in the Family, a role that earned him two Emmy Awards. He later transitioned behind the camera, where his influence would prove even greater. He was the son of comedy legend Carl Reiner and later co-founded the production company Castle Rock Entertainment – which recently was brought back for the long-awaited sequel, Spinal Tap II – The End Continues. And there was talk that a third installment was coming.
Michele Reiner was an actress, photographer and producer, and owned the Reiner Light photography agency. She was also known for her charity work and advocacy. The couple married in 1989 and had three children together.
Celebrity Tributes
Tributes have come from across film, television and politics.
Actor Josh Gad said: “He was simply a beautiful person. Rob Reiner and his wife Michelle were two of the most kind and caring souls you could ever imagine. He cared so much for those who had no voices. This loss is devastating. I cannot express how much this hurts. Love you Rob and Michelle. Thank you for all you gave us.”
Barack Obama, former US President, said: “Rob’s achievements in film and television gave us some of our most cherished stories on screen. But 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. Together, he and his wife lived lives defined by purpose. They will be remembered for the values they championed and the countless people they inspired. We send our deepest condolences to all who loved them.”
Eric Idle, actor and comedian, said: “I spoke to him last night for over an hour. I always enjoyed his company. I met him at his Dad’s in 1975. He was telling me about fiming at Stonehenge and his thoughts for the future. This is so awful. I shall miss him. A clever, talented and very thoughtful man. So awful.”
Actor and director Ben Stiller said: “Rob Reiner was one of my favorite directors. He made some of the most formative movies for my generation. Spinal Tap is one of the best comedies ever made – and the list goes on. He was a kind caring person who was really really funny.”
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, said: “I am heartbroken by the deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife Michele. Rob was a big-hearted genius behind so many of the classic stories we love.”
Rob Reiner’s legacy lives on through the films that shaped generations and continue to remind audiences why stories matter.
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