Hollywood Mourns Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Singer as Friends Release Emotional Tribute

Hollywood is mourning the loss of acclaimed filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer, after the couple was found dead at their Brentwood home on Sunday afternoon. Reiner was 78, and Singer was 70.

On Tuesday, a group of Reiner’s closest friends and longtime collaborators released a heartfelt joint statement remembering the legendary filmmaker and his wife. The statement, shared with The Associated Press, was signed by Billy Crystal, Larry David, Martin Short, Albert Brooks, Barry Levinson, writer Alan Zweibel, U.S. Ambassador to Spain James Costos, and composer Marc Shaiman.

“Absorbing all he had learned from his father Carl and his mentor Norman Lear, Rob Reiner not only was a great comic actor, he became a master storyteller,” the statement read. The group praised Reiner’s rare versatility, noting that few directors matched his ability to move effortlessly between comedy, drama, mockumentary, and documentary filmmaking.

“There is no other director who has his range,” the statement continued. “He charmed audiences. They trusted him. They lined up to see his films.”

The tribute also highlighted Reiner’s sharp ear for dialogue and his elegant approach to drama. “His comedic touch was beyond compare,” the friends wrote, adding that his work consistently reflected precision, warmth, and intelligence.

Reiner was also remembered for his strong civic engagement. Described as a “passionate, brave citizen,” he and Singer were outspoken Democrats who frequently advocated for political reform. Singer was called Reiner’s “perfect partner,” with the statement emphasizing how deeply committed the couple was to improving the lives of others.

“Strong and determined, Michele and Rob Reiner devoted a great deal of their lives for the betterment of our fellow citizens,” the statement said. “They were a special force together — dynamic, unselfish and inspiring.”

The tribute closed with a line from It’s a Wonderful Life, one of Reiner’s favorite films:
“Each man’s life touches so many other lives, and when he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?”

Rob Reiner first rose to fame as an actor on the groundbreaking sitcom “All in the Family” before becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected directors. His filmography includes classics such as “This Is Spinal Tap,” “When Harry Met Sally…,” “A Few Good Men,” and “Stand by Me.”

“We were their friends, and we will miss them forever,” the statement concluded.

The deaths of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer mark a profound loss for the film industry and for those who knew them personally, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, compassion, and lasting influence.