Legendary Hollywood director Rob Reiner, known for classics like When Harry Met Sally, The Princess Bride, Stand By Me and This Is Spinal Tap, has died at age 78, and authorities are now investigating his death as an apparent homicide, according to multiple news outlets.
Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, 68, were found dead inside their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon after firefighters responded to a medical aid call. Police say detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division are leading the investigation.
Officials told ABC News that both Reiner and his wife suffered wounds consistent with a knife attack. Initially no suspects had been identified; however, it has now been reported that their son Nick was responsible for the shocking murders. He currently in custody and is being questioned.
A family spokesperson confirmed the couple’s deaths in a statement, saying, “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.”
Reiner’s impact on film and television spanned decades. He first became famous for his role as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the groundbreaking sitcom All in the Family before going on to direct some of Hollywood’s most beloved films, including A Few Good Men and Misery. He also co-founded Castle Rock Entertainment, the company behind hits like Seinfeld and The Shawshank Redemption.
The shocking news has drawn an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow creatives. According to reports, friends and peers including comedians Billy Crystal and Larry David were seen near the Reiner residence as news of the tragedy spread.
Reiner and Singer married in 1989 and had three children together. The investigation is ongoing, and police have said they are continuing to gather evidence as they work to understand exactly what happened.