The tragic deaths of director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner have sent shockwaves through the film industry. The couple, who were married for more than 35 years, were found dead in their home in Los Angeles on Sunday. Reiner was 78 years old, and Singer Reiner was 70. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with their deaths.
The romance between Reiner and Singer began in 1988 during the filming of the iconic romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally…. At that time, Reiner was feeling disillusioned in his personal life. He recounted a pivotal moment when cinematographer Barry Sonnenfeld suggested he meet Singer, saying, “I know this girl. Her name is Michele Singer, and you’re going to marry her.” Initially skeptical, Reiner would soon discover that Sonnenfeld’s intuition was spot on.
During the film’s production in New York, Reiner spotted Singer visiting the set. He described the moment vividly, recalling, “I look over, and I see this girl, and whoo! I was attracted immediately.” This encounter not only sparked a personal connection but also inspired Reiner to alter the film’s original ending, ensuring that Harry and Sally would end up together—mirroring his own romantic journey.
Impact on Film and Activism
Their relationship profoundly influenced Reiner’s filmmaking. He explained in a 2018 interview with The Guardian, “Originally, Harry and Sally didn’t get together. But then I met Michele and I thought: OK, I see how this works.” The couple married just months after they met, a testament to their deep bond.
In their time together, Singer Reiner became integral to Reiner’s creative projects. She worked as a special photographer on his film Misery and contributed to projects such as the documentary Albert Brooks: Defending My Life, which earned them an Emmy nomination in 2024. Most recently, she produced Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, showcasing her ongoing collaboration with her husband in the film industry.
Beyond their cinematic contributions, the Reiners were passionate advocates for social issues. In the 1990s, they initiated a campaign focused on early childhood development, emphasizing the importance of parental support. They also co-founded the American Foundation for Equal Rights in 2009, a key player in the fight against California’s same-sex marriage ban.
Reiner attributed much of his political activism to Singer Reiner, stating in a 2016 conversation with Stephen Colbert, “I can honestly say the reason I’ve done as many things in the political sphere is largely because of her.” Her commitment to social justice was deeply influenced by her mother’s experiences as a Holocaust survivor, which also motivated the couple to participate in the Stolpersteine project, commemorating victims of the Holocaust.
Reflections on Love and Loss
Reiner often reflected on the impact of his marriage to Singer Reiner, describing their relationship as one that evolved into a best friendship. Celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary in 2014, he stated, “As you go along, the relationship becomes better and better because you really become best friends.” He credited her with helping him understand what truly mattered in life.
Their family, which includes three children—Jake, Nick, and Romy—is now grappling with the aftermath of this devastating incident. Nick Reiner’s arrest has added a layer of complexity to an already tragic situation, with Sonnenfeld noting Singer Reiner’s long-standing concerns for her son’s well-being.
As news of the couple’s death spreads, many in the film industry are mourning the loss of not just a talented director and his partner but a couple whose love story inspired countless others. Reiner’s humor and insight into their relationship will be remembered, particularly his lighthearted remark about Singer Reiner’s past work with Donald Trump, stating, “She has a lot to atone for.”
The legacy of Rob and Michele Reiner will endure, both through their contributions to cinema and their commitment to social causes, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew them and those who were touched by their work.
