Nick Reiner, the son of renowned director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder on Monday in Los Angeles. The plea sent shockwaves through Hollywood days before Christmas, as both parents were brutally murdered at their Brentwood home.
The 32-year-old appeared in a downtown courtroom after his arrest for stabbing his father and mother to death. Prosecutors revealed that the filmmaker, known for hits like “When Harry Met Sally” and “A Few Good Men,” and his spouse were victims of this heinous crime.
Nick Reiner’s arrest occurred just days before their deaths on December 14. At the time, Rob and Michele had attended a party hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien where they allegedly displayed erratic behavior. Their plans for dinner with former president Barack Obama and Michelle also fell through shortly afterward.
According to sources close to the family, both parents were scheduled to attend a home massage appointment on Sunday evening. When no one answered the door for this planned gathering, Romy Reiner, Nick’s daughter, contacted her father’s therapist who then discovered their bodies.
Nick, known for his history of addiction issues, was formally informed of what charges he faces and had his rights explained during court proceedings. The arraignment scheduled for earlier was delayed due to ongoing legal challenges. A judge appointed a public defender to represent Reiner, who remains in custody without bail.
The defense lawyer, Alan Jackson, explained the situation by saying that circumstances beyond Nick’s control have led to their withdrawal of representation. Despite this, they remain committed to his best interests and maintain confidence that all evidence will be thoroughly investigated. They assert that there is insufficient proof to support a murder charge under California law, suggesting Reiner’s innocence.
If convicted, he could face either life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman indicated his office would review the circumstances before deciding on a potential request for capital punishment if warranted by conviction.
The case has captured public attention and underscores concerns over mental health issues among celebrities. As Reiner’s legal battle continues, questions remain about how these murders occurred amid high-profile social circles.