President Donald Trump attributed the reported deaths of filmmaker Rob Reiner and Reiner’s wife, Michele, to what he described as Reiner’s “raging obsession” with him, posting the comments on Truth Social on Monday morning.
Background
Reiner, 78, was a prominent Hollywood director known for films including When Harry Met Sally…, The Princess Bride and A Few Good Men. He was also a vocal critic of Trump in recent years, including calling him “mentally unfit” to be president in a 2017 interview with Variety.
Trump’s Truth Social post
In his Monday post, Trump said Reiner had been suffering from what he called “TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME” (often shortened to “TDS”), and suggested the anger surrounding Reiner’s criticism of him contributed to the couple’s deaths. Trump ended the message by offering condolences and writing that Reiner and his wife should “rest in peace.”
What we know about the deaths
Reiner and his wife Michele were found dead inside their home Sunday evening, according to the Associated Press and a family statement. Los Angeles Police Department Captain Mike Bland told AP that detectives with the robbery homicide division were investigating an “apparent homicide” at Reiner’s home.
As of Monday morning, details about a suspect or motive had not been publicly released. The couple had three children: Jake, Nick and Romy.
Reiner’s comments about Trump
In a February 2024 interview with The Guardian, Reiner said he feared a Trump return to the White House could lead to “autocracy,” and argued the election was a choice between preserving American democracy and moving toward authoritarian rule.
He also described Trump as a “criminal” and said he believed Trump was dishonest.
In September, Reiner said on MSNBC that U.S. democracy was “being taken away,” warning the country could become a “full on autocracy” and suggesting he feared increased intimidation around elections.
What people are saying
A number of public figures and celebrities posted tributes following the news:
- Former President Barack Obama wrote on X that he and Michelle Obama were “heartbroken,” praising Reiner’s work and describing him and his wife as people who lived with “purpose.”
- Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass wrote on X that Reiner’s impact extended beyond entertainment, highlighting his advocacy on social and economic justice.
- Author Stephen King wrote on X that he was “horrified and saddened,” calling Reiner a friend, political ally and “brilliant filmmaker.”
- California Governor Gavin Newsom wrote on X that Reiner’s empathy shaped timeless stories and pointed to his advocacy on issues including children’s welfare and civil rights.
What happens next
Authorities continue to investigate the deaths of Reiner and his wife.
