LOS ANGELES — Former President Donald Trump faced widespread backlash from lawmakers and celebrities after posting comments on social media attributing the death of filmmaker Rob Reiner to what he described as the director’s longstanding opposition to him.
The remarks came days after Reiner, 78, and his 68 year old wife, Michele, were found dead at their Brentwood home, with their 32 year old son, Nick, arrested on suspicion of murder.
Trump described Reiner as “tortured and struggling” and claimed he died “due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME.”
He also praised his own achievements, contrasting them with what he called Reiner’s “raging obsession” and “obvious paranoia” toward him.
Los Angeles police confirmed Monday that Nick Reiner was taken into custody with bail set at $4 million. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, and officials have urged the public to avoid speculation as law enforcement gathers evidence.
Rob Reiner, a veteran actor and director known for films such as This Is Spinal Tap and When Harry Met Sally, had been vocal in his criticism of Trump, warning of potential threats to democracy if the former president secured a second term.
Michele Reiner, a professional photographer, had notably contributed to the cover of Trump’s 1987 book The Art of the Deal. Political analysts said Trump’s post underscores the polarizing role of social media in contemporary political discourse.
Dr. Laura Simmons, a political communication professor at UCLA, said, “This type of commentary can inflame public sentiment and distract from ongoing criminal investigations. It also reflects how high profile figures use personal grievances to frame public narratives.”
Legal experts noted the sensitivity of commenting on ongoing investigations. “While free speech is protected, attributing blame before legal proceedings are complete can complicate public perception and potentially influence jurors,” said Thomas Redford, a criminal law analyst based in Los Angeles.
The remarks drew swift condemnation across party lines. California Gov. Gavin Newsom described Trump’s post as “sick,” while Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy said, “He’s just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they didn’t support him. So sick.”
Several celebrities also criticized the post. Actor Patrick Schwarzenegger called it “a disgusting and vile statement,” and television host Whoopi Goldberg said, “I don’t understand the man in the White House. Have you no shame?”
Republican lawmakers also spoke out. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stressed, “This is a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies,” highlighting the importance of empathy amid personal and mental health challenges. Kentucky Rep.
Thomas Massie called Trump’s commentary “inappropriate and disrespectful” to a family that had just suffered a violent loss. Reiner had publicly voiced concerns about Trump’s approach to governance and the influence of far right movements.
In 2017, he told Variety that Trump was “mentally unfit” to serve as president and warned of potential global repercussions if the US shifted toward authoritarianism.
Despite these criticisms, Reiner condemned political violence, particularly after the 2025 shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. “It should never happen to anybody,” he said at the time.
A recent Pew Research Center survey found that 62 percent of Americans believe public figures should refrain from commentary on ongoing criminal cases.
Social media analytics firm TrendSight reported a surge in posts referencing both Reiner and Trump following the incident, with engagement from across the political spectrum, reflecting heightened public interest and concern.
Neighbors and friends described the Reiners as a close knit family. “They were incredibly kind and private people,” said Maria Torres, a Brentwood resident. “It’s heartbreaking that such a tragedy happened in our neighborhood, and now it’s being politicized in this way.”
Friends of the Reiners emphasized the need for understanding the human dimension. “Nick has struggled with addiction and mental health issues,” said a family friend who requested anonymity. “This is a devastating situation for everyone involved.”
Legal observers expect the case to dominate local headlines for months as the investigation proceeds and court proceedings begin. Experts also noted that the social media backlash highlights broader questions about accountability for public figures who comment on sensitive issues.
Trump’s remarks regarding Rob and Michele Reiner have sparked bipartisan condemnation and public debate, reflecting the intersection of politics, social media, and personal tragedy.
As law enforcement continues its investigation, officials and observers urge caution, emphasizing that the focus should remain on the ongoing legal process and support for those affected by the deaths.
