At a Glance
- Rob Reiner and wife Michele were found dead on Dec. 14; their son Nick has been charged with the murders.
- Hollywood stars paid tribute at the Critics Choice Awards on Jan. 4.
- Friends and colleagues highlighted Reiner’s lasting influence as a director and storyteller.
- Why it matters: The tribute underscores the impact of Reiner’s work and the ongoing legal case that grips Hollywood.
Rob Reiner’s sudden death, along with his wife Michele’s, shocked Hollywood and prompted a heartfelt tribute at the Critics Choice Awards. The ceremony highlighted Reiner’s legacy and the tragic circumstances surrounding his family’s murder. The event also drew attention to the son who has been charged with the killings.
Critics Choice Tribute
Chelsea Handler opened the ceremony by honoring Reiner’s memory. She described him as “an old friend” who was always present and engaged in conversation.
Chelsea Handler said:
> “Anyone who ever spent time with Rob Reiner knows that the minute that you met him, he felt like an old friend. When you were in a conversation with him, he was present, he was focused and he was funny, and he would ask you tons of questions, whether you were discussing politics or film or the latest beauty trends-he was all in.”
Handler also recalled a personal exchange with Reiner:
Chelsea Handler said:
> “After I sent him a text thanking him for dinner a few months ago, he texted me back and said, ‘We had so much fun with you last night. Thanks for explaining so much about plastic surgery. It was very edifying.'”
The audience, including Adam Sandler, Jean Smart and Delroy Lindo, was visibly moved by the tribute.
Legacy Celebrated
Reiner’s friends and colleagues continued to speak about his impact. A letter from Billy Crystal, Martin Short, Albert Brooks and Larry David praised his range.
Letter from Reiner’s Friends said:
> “Rob Reiner not only was a great comic actor, he became a master storyteller. There is no other director who has his range. From comedy to drama to ‘mockumentary’ to documentary he was always at the top of his game. He charmed audiences. They trusted him. They lined up to see his films.”
Meg Ryan honored Reiner and his wife on Instagram, noting their belief in love and laughter.
Meg Ryan wrote:
> “Thank you for your faith in the best in people, and for your profound love of our country.”
She added:
> “Some good may come, some awareness raised. I don’t know, but my guess is that they would want that to be hopeful and humane, to be something that brings us all to a greater understanding of one another and to some peace.”
Legal Developments
Nick Reiner appeared in court for the first time on Dec. 17 after being charged with his parents’ murders. He did not enter a plea and his arraignment was delayed.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec. 14 | Reiner and wife found dead |
| Dec. 16 | Friends letter published |
| Dec. 17 | Nick Reiner arraigned |
| Jan. 4 | Critics Choice tribute |
The case remains a focus for the entertainment community.
Key Takeaways
- Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead on Dec. 14; their son Nick is charged with the murders.
- Hollywood stars honored Reiner at the Critics Choice Awards, emphasizing his legacy.
- Friends, colleagues, and fans continue to celebrate Reiner’s influence while the legal case unfolds.
The tribute at the Critics Choice Awards serves as a reminder of Reiner’s enduring impact on film and the ongoing pursuit of justice for his family.
