Acclaimed director, actor, writer, and activist Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, 68, were found dead inside their upscale home in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon.

The Los Angeles Police Department has launched a homicide investigation and the couple’s family has confirmed their deaths.

Authorities have described the circumstances of the deaths as violent and tragic, and law enforcement personnel, friends, colleagues, and elected officials have reacted with shock, grief, and calls for privacy for the grieving family.

Discovery and Police Response

According to official reports, firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical aid call at the Reiners’ residence in the 200 block of Chadbourne Avenue in Brentwood just after 3:30 p.m.

PST on December 14. When first responders entered the home, they discovered two bodies — a man and a woman — inside the property.

Within minutes, officers from the Los Angeles Police Department arrived and determined that the circumstances warranted a homicide investigation.

Detectives from the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division were assigned to the case, and the scene was secured with crime scene tape as neighbors and onlookers gathered nearby.

Officials confirmed that there was no immediate public identification at the scene, and that the official cause and manner of death were pending examination by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Family Statement and Confirmation

Later Sunday evening, a spokesperson for the Reiner family issued a formal statement confirming that Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner had died.

The family said: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner.

We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.”

The statement did not release additional details about the cause of death or circumstances, citing the ongoing nature of the police investigation. 

Details on the Apparent Cause

Initial reports from law enforcement sources and media outlets have indicated that both individuals suffered wounds consistent with knife injuries, with lacerations that suggest a violent encounter inside the home.

TMZ and other outlets reported the nature of the injuries, although police have refrained from officially releasing the cause of death until the medical examiner’s findings are completed.

At this stage, the LAPD has publicly declined to identify any suspects or persons of interest.

In a brief press briefing, LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton stated that detectives were continuing their investigation and would not name suspects until evidence was further developed.

Investigation Status

As of this writing, law enforcement continues to investigate the incident as a homicide, interviewing family members and others with potential connections to the couple.

The LAPD has not confirmed whether there was forced entry or whether any weapons have been recovered, and they have not provided details on a timeline for releasing further information.

The department has urged anyone with information to come forward, and detectives are working to reconstruct the events leading up to the discovery of the bodies.

Rob Reiner — A Life and Career in Film, Television, and Activism

Born Robert Reiner on March 6, 1947, in the Bronx, New York, into a family of entertainers, Rob Reiner rose to fame initially as an actor before becoming one of Hollywood’s most versatile directors.

His father, Carl Reiner, was a legendary comedian and television pioneer, and his mother, Estelle Lebost Reiner, was an accomplished visual artist.

Early Career and Breakthrough in Television

Reiner first achieved widespread recognition for his role as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the groundbreaking sitcom All in the Family (1971–1979).

The show was a cultural touchstone of 1970s television and addressed social issues with humor and sharp writing. Reiner’s portrayal earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards and helped make him a household name.

Following his television success, Reiner made appearances in a range of film and television roles, including Sleepless in SeattleThe First Wives ClubThe Wolf of Wall Street30 Rock, and The Bear, among others.

Cinematic Achievements

Reiner transitioned behind the camera to become one of Hollywood’s most respected directors.

His directorial debut came in 1984 with the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, a film that has since become a cult classic for its satire of rock music culture.

He went on to direct a string of iconic films that crossed genres and touched millions of viewers:

Stand By Me (1986) – A coming-of-age drama widely praised for its emotional depth and storytelling.

The Princess Bride (1987) – A beloved fantasy adventure that has remained a staple of family entertainment.

When Harry Met Sally… (1989) – A romantic comedy classic that helped define the genre.

A Few Good Men (1992) – A courtroom drama that earned critical acclaim and Academy Award nominations.

Misery (1990) and The American President (1995) – Films that showcased Reiner’s range and ability to handle diverse subject matter.

Together with co-founder Martin Shafer, Reiner also helped establish Castle Rock Entertainment, the production company behind many influential films and the television hit Seinfeld.

Michele Singer Reiner — Life, Career, and Legacy

Michele Singer Reiner was a respected photographer and film producer. According to reports, she met Rob Reiner on the set of When Harry Met Sally…, where she worked as a photographer.

Their relationship evolved rapidly into a lifelong partnership, leading to marriage in 1989 and a family together.

Singer Reiner contributed to the entertainment industry both through her photography and her producing work, which included collaborations on projects with her husband and others.

She was known among friends and colleagues as a talented artist with a keen eye and deep passion for her work.

She also took part in social activism with her husband, supporting causes including LGBTQ+ rights and creative community initiatives.

Family — Children and Personal Life

Rob and Michele Singer Reiner were longtime partners in both life and art, married for more than 35 years at the time of their deaths.

They had three children together — Jake, Nick, and Romy — and Reiner was also a father to Tracy Reiner, whom he adopted during his first marriage to Penny Marshall.u

The family has historically maintained a low public profile, and in this current tragedy officials have asked for privacy and sensitivity as they navigate a painful loss.

Community and Industry Reaction

News of the Reiners’ deaths triggered an immediate outpouring of grief from across Hollywood, political leaders, colleagues, and fans:

Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom released a joint tribute honoring Reiner as a “big-hearted genius” whose storytelling inspired generations.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass noted Reiner’s immense contributions to culture, art, and social justice.

Friends such as actress Kathy Bates remembered Reiner’s kindness, artistic brilliance, and collaborative spirit.

Colleagues and actors who appeared in or worked with Reiner’s films also shared memories and condolences on social media and in interviews.

Investigation Outlook and What Comes Next

At this stage, the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division continues its investigation into the couple’s deaths.

Police have not publicly identified suspects, and while media reports have circulated about potential involvement by family members, officials have insisted that the investigation remains active and evidence-based.

Authorities are expected to release additional details as forensic examinations, witness interviews, and follow-up inquiries proceed.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office will provide official cause of death once its analysis is complete.

Friends and industry voices have reiterated calls for patience, compassion, and respect for the Reiner family during this very difficult time.