Los Angeles police are investigating the deaths of acclaimed Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner as an “apparent homicide” after the couple was found dead in their Los Angeles mansion with what appeared to be stab wounds.
The bodies of 77-year-old filmmaker, best known for directing romantic comedy classics “When Harry Met Sally” and “The Princess Bride,” and his 67-year-old wife were discovered on Sunday, according to US media reports.
“At this time, no further details are available as this is an ongoing investigation into an apparent homicide,” the Los Angeles Police Department announced on social media, though officials did not immediately confirm the identities of the victims.
LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton told reporters that authorities are not currently seeking any suspects or persons of interest, emphasizing that the investigation remains in its early stages.
“The Los Angeles Police Department is not seeking anyone as a suspect or as a person of interest, or in any other manner, and we will not be doing that until we conduct our investigation and we move forward,” Hamilton said.
He added that investigators plan to interview all available family members to gather facts about the case.
A family spokesperson confirmed the deaths to CNN, while the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a man and woman, approximately 78 and 68 years old respectively, were found dead inside the home.
The shocking news prompted an outpouring of condolences from political leaders across California and the nation.
Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his grief on social media, writing: “Rob will be remembered for his remarkable filmography and for his extraordinary contribution to humanity. I am heartbroken by the tragic loss.”
Former Vice President Kamala Harris and ex-President Barack Obama also issued separate statements honoring Reiner’s legacy.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who knew Reiner personally, praised his multifaceted career and activism.
“An acclaimed actor, director, producer, writer, and engaged political activist, he always used his gifts in service of others,” Bass said, confirming that the investigation remains ongoing.
Reiner first gained fame as an actor, playing the character Michael “Meathead” Stivic, the liberal son-in-law on the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom “All in the Family.” He successfully transitioned to directing with the 1984 rock mockumentary “This is Spinal Tap.”
His directorial portfolio included the 1989 romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally,” starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, which became a cultural phenomenon and cemented his reputation as a master of the genre.
Beyond entertainment, Reiner was a passionate advocate for liberal causes, championing LGBTQ marriage equality and helping establish California’s First 5 program, which funds child development initiatives through tobacco taxes.
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