Former President Barack Obama said Monday that he and former first lady Michelle Obama were “heartbroken” to learn that director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, were found dead Sunday in their Los Angeles home.
Police said they were investigating an apparent homicide at the Brentwood home of Mr. Reiner, who balanced his Hollywood career with heavy campaigning for Democratic candidates.
“Rob’s achievements in film and television gave us some of our most cherished stories on screen,” Mr. Obama posted on X. “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.”
Michelle and I are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Rob Reiner and his beloved wife, Michele. 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…
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 15, 2025
Mr. Reiner rose to prominence as a sitcom actor. Later, he hit it big as the director of beloved movies such as “This is Spinal Tap,” “The Princess Bride” and “When Harry Met Sally…”
SEE ALSO: Rob Reiner, son of a comedy giant who became one in turn, dies at 78
Los Angeles police said they found the bodies of Mr. Reiner and his wife when they responded to a call to the home at 3:40 p.m. Sunday as part of a death investigation.
The police have not identified a suspect or forwarded a theory about what happened, though tributes are pouring in from writer Stephen King and top Democrats such as the Obamas.
“Together, he and his wife lived lives defined by purpose,” Mr. Obama wrote. “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.”
Mr. Reiner was a frequent critic of President Trump, often focusing on the leader’s interactions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Mr. Reiner donated to Democratic candidates and was active in social causes.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, California Democrat, called the news “devastating” and said Mr. Reiner was “creative, funny, and beloved.”
“Civically, he was a champion for the First Amendment and the creative rights of artists,” she posted on X. “And professionally, he was an iconic figure in film who made us laugh, cry and think with the movies he created.”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, praised Mr. Reiner for his “empathy.”
“That empathy extended well beyond his films,” the governor said on social media. “Rob was a passionate advocate for children and for civil rights — from taking on Big Tobacco, fighting for marriage equality, to serving as a powerful voice in early education. He made California a better place through his good works.”
Mr. King, the horror novelist who has supported Democrats and liberal causes, pointed to his collaborations with Mr. Reiner.
“Wonderful friend, political ally, and brilliant filmmaker (including 2 of mine),” Mr. King posted on X. “Rest in peace, Rob. You always stood by me.”
