Today's News: Nick Reiner Arrested on Suspicion of Murder in Parents' Death
The incident followed an argument between Nick and his father at a holiday party the night before. Nick Reiner has a documented history of drug addiction and homelessness.
Photo: Evan Agostini/Invision/AP
Overview
Date: December 15, 2025
Summary: Legendary Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife, producer Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Brentwood home, leading to the arrest of their son, Nick Reiner, on suspicion of murder. The incident followed an argument between Nick and his father at a holiday party the night before. Nick Reiner has a documented history of drug addiction and homelessness, which was publicly discussed, including through a film he co-wrote and his father directed, “Being Charlie.” The deaths have prompted widespread tributes from Hollywood and political figures, while President Donald Trump’s controversial comments about Rob Reiner’s death drew criticism, even from some Republicans.
Sources
CNN - Rob and Michele Reiner’s son ‘responsible’ for their deaths, police say
The New York Times - Live Updates: Reiners’ Son Arrested in Deaths of His Parents
The Washington Post - Rob Reiner’s son held in his parents’ killings, police say
The Wall Street Journal - Rob Reiner’s Son Arrested on Suspicion of Murder After Parents’ Death
Key Points
Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner were discovered dead in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon, with authorities determining their deaths were a homicide.
Their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, was arrested hours later on suspicion of murder and is being held without bail.
A significant theme across reports is Nick Reiner’s long-standing struggle with drug addiction and periods of homelessness, which he and his father openly discussed, notably in relation to their 2015 film “Being Charlie,” which was inspired by Nick’s experiences.
The night before their bodies were found, Nick Reiner was seen having an argument with his father, Rob Reiner, at a holiday party hosted by Conan O’Brien, where his behavior made other guests uncomfortable.
The entertainment industry and political figures have expressed widespread grief and offered tributes to Rob Reiner’s legacy as an actor, director, and activist, and to Michele Singer Reiner’s work as a photographer and producer.
President Donald Trump’s comments on social media, suggesting Reiner’s death was due to “Trump derangement syndrome,” provoked strong criticism from across the political spectrum, including some Republican lawmakers.
The case is being prepared for presentation to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for the consideration of formal charges.
Unique Highlights
CNN reports that the Reiners’ daughter, Romy Reiner, was the person who discovered her parents. The article includes specific anecdotes from Nick Reiner’s 2018 “Dopey” podcast, where he described an outburst in his parents’ guest house, punching out a TV and a lamp while high on uppers. Maria Shriver mentioned having dinner with the couple just last week and noted they “were in the best place” in their lives. Former President Joe Biden offered his condolences, recognizing their “extraordinary contributions.”
NBC News provides additional detail about Nick Reiner’s behavior at Conan O’Brien’s party, stating he made guests uncomfortable, including interrupting a conversation involving comedian Bill Hader and then appearing to stand still and stare before “storming off.” The article also notes Nick Reiner was living on and off at his parents’ home in Brentwood.
The New York Times details that two people briefed on the case, but unauthorized to speak publicly, said the Reiners had been stabbed to death. The article provides extensive information about Michele Singer Reiner, including how she met Rob Reiner on the set of “When Harry Met Sally…” and how their relationship inspired Reiner to change the film’s ending to a happier one.
The New York Times also recounts other high-profile deaths in the Brentwood neighborhood, such as the O.J. Simpson case and Marilyn Monroe.
It offers more specifics on Rob Reiner’s political activism, including his role in overturning California’s Proposition 8, his consideration of running for governor, and his production of the “God & Country” documentary.
The article includes further details from Nick Reiner’s past interviews, such as having a heart attack on a plane due to cocaine use and throwing a rock through a window at a treatment center. Alan Horn, a close friend, quoted Michele Reiner saying of Nick’s struggles, “We’ve tried everything. We don’t know what else to do.” A friend, Geoffrey Mark, recalled Rob Reiner’s joking, yet pointed, response when asked how he was doing: “Go have children.”
The article also notes Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, described as a “Trump ally-turned-adversary,” criticized Trump’s post.
The Washington Post mentions Tracy Reiner as Rob Reiner’s adoptive daughter from his first marriage to Penny Marshall. Actor Jerry O’Connell, who starred in “Stand By Me,” stated on “CBS Mornings” that Reiner “was like a father to me” and credited him for everything he has. The article also includes condolences from “New Girl” creator Elizabeth Meriwether and cast members, as Rob Reiner had a recurring role on the show.
Contrasting Details
Bail Status: There is conflicting information regarding Nick Reiner’s bail. CNN initially reported he was held on $4 million bail but later updated that he was being held without bail. The New York Times and The Washington Post consistently state he is being held without bail. The Wall Street Journal also initially mentioned $4 million bail per LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, then stated he is being held without bail according to police and inmate records.
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