Conan O’Brien Breaks Silence on Michele, Rob Reiner’s Death

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Conan O’Brien is speaking out about an unfathomable tragedy.

The comedian shared his condolences after learning of the deaths of director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner. The couple was found dead at their Los Angeles home, just a day after attending the comedian’s Christmas party on December 13th.

Conan recently described the shock he felt after saying goodnight to someone and then learning the next day that they had passed away. In an interview with The New Yorker, he said he was in shock for a long time and found the experience simply awful.

The Oscars host explained that he and his wife, Liza Powel O’Brien, had been spending a lot more time with Rob and Michele, and their friendship had been growing closer.

He described them as wonderful people, then shared his sadness about Rob’s passing. He remembered how passionate and engaged Rob was with current events, always willing to get involved, and said it’s still difficult to accept that such a strong voice is now gone.

Rob and Michele Reiner, parents of Jake, 34, Nick, 32, and Romy, 27, were at Conan O’Brien’s holiday party before they were found dead. Several sources told the L.A. Times and People that Nick had been causing trouble all night and had a fierce argument with his father at the party.

On December 14th, Nick was arrested and initially suspected of killing Rob and Michele. He has since been formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder.

TopMob News contacted representatives for Rob and Conan for a statement, but they didn’t hear back.

Jane Fonda was with Rob, 78, and Michele, 68, during their final moments and spoke about her reaction to their deaths.

The Oscar-winning actor shared on Instagram on December 15th that they had seen the individuals two nights prior, describing them as healthy and happy. They expressed being overwhelmed with grief and shock.

Eighty-seven-year-old Jane fondly described the couple as dedicated activists who were wonderful, caring, intelligent, and humorous. She noted they were always generous and full of ideas for improving the world and making it a more compassionate place.

Rob and Michele were planning to spend time with their friends, Barack and Michelle Obama, but sadly, that didn’t happen due to their untimely deaths.

The former first lady shared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! that they had known the people in question for a long time and were scheduled to meet with them the night before the show aired.

Despite their controversial views, Michelle, age 61, recalled them as truly passionate individuals who bravely stood up for their beliefs, especially at a time when that kind of courage seemed rare.

She explained that they weren’t just talk – they truly lived by their values. They deeply valued their family, their country, and treating everyone with fairness and equality.

To see how more stars are honored Rob and Michele’s memory, read on.

The actress, adopted by director Rob Reiner while he was married to the late Penny Marshall, said she last saw her father at a family event the day before he and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were discovered dead at their home in Los Angeles, in what authorities are investigating as a homicide.

In a statement to NBC News on December 14th, she said she came from a wonderful family and was completely shocked by recent events, adding she didn’t know what to say.

The actress shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying how much she would miss Rob Reiner. She thanked him and his wife, Michelle, for believing in love, happiness, and the good in people, as well as for their dedication to the country. She went on to say that she hoped their story wouldn’t end with this tragedy, and that something positive – perhaps increased awareness – could come from it. She believed they would want the focus to be on hope, kindness, and a greater understanding and peace among everyone.

The Spinal Tap actor shared on Instagram that Rob was a lifelong friend and someone he enjoyed working with. He described Rob as funny, intelligent, and a genuinely good person. He fondly remembered Rob’s booming laughter when he attended both a comedy show and a musical the actor co-wrote, saying it could be heard all over the neighborhood.

Harry remembered that when he and his friends – Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Rob – came up with movie ideas, Rob was the one who would write them down on index cards and structure them into a complete film.

He continued, saying that Michele was a close friend to his wife, Judith. He described the situation as devastating, like something out of an ancient Greek tragedy.

The Princess Bride star said she’s “deeply shocked and devastated” by Rob and Michele’s passing.

She said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that she was deeply saddened by the news. She described Rob as a wonderfully loving, compassionate, and kind person, and praised him as an exceptional director whose influence continues to inspire her work.

I was so heartbroken to hear about Rob and Michele. It’s truly devastating. They were such valued members of our community, and Rob’s art resonated with millions around the world. It’s a huge loss, and I’m sending all my love to everyone affected.

Speaking about the director of Alex & Emma, she said, “Rob was truly one of the best. He had a gift for making films that were funny, moving, and uplifting, and he wasn’t limited by genre – he just told incredible stories.”

The Academy Award-winning actress stated she had seen Rob and Michele the day before their bodies were discovered at their home in Los Angeles.

I just can’t believe it. They were the most wonderful, caring, smart, funny, and generous people you could ever meet! I actually saw them just two nights ago, and they looked so healthy and happy. I’m completely heartbroken and still in shock. I’m reeling, honestly. Just… stunned.

I was so incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of my A Few Good Men director and his wife. They were truly exceptional people, and wonderful parents who dedicated their lives to making a positive impact on the world. My heart goes out to their family, friends, and everyone affected by this terrible loss. I’m sending all my thoughts and prayers their way.

Demi Moore and her ex-husband Bruce Willis’ daughters – Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah – grew up alongside Rob and Michele’s three children, essentially becoming blended siblings.

She wrote about how they collaborated, and how their lives became connected both at work and in their personal lives. She said she would always treasure the memories they made together.

The actor shared a photo on Instagram of his and Rob Reiner’s chairs from the set of The Princess Bride, simply writing “No words” to express his sadness after learning of the director’s death.

The actor, known for his role in Stand By Me, expressed his shock and sadness upon hearing the news of the director’s passing, sharing on X, “I’m completely shocked and heartbroken. I love you, Rob! You’ll be forever missed!”

The director of A Simple Favor shared a beloved photo and a heartfelt tribute, calling Rob her ‘true hero.’ She described him as a visionary leader and a genuinely kind person.

He paused, then said it’s always difficult to know if posting is appropriate after a tragedy. However, he wanted everyone to understand something many in the industry already knew: Rob was truly exceptional.

Oh my gosh, it just destroyed me to see her talk about Rob! He was her TV dad on New Girl, and she was clearly absolutely heartbroken. You could just feel how devastated she was paying tribute to him – it was so raw and emotional. I’m still getting teary just thinking about it!

She shared on Instagram that she was heartbroken by the loss of Rob Reiner, describing him as incredibly kind, funny, and generous. She called him a wonderful person and a talented artist, fondly remembering their time working together and how his films influenced her life.

She fondly remembered Rob and his wife, Michele, saying they were always kind and she cherished every moment she spent with them.

The actor from Stand By Me found out about the director’s death from his co-star, Jerry O’Connell. In a post on his website on December 15th, he described the loss as tragic, senseless, and devastating, and said he was still trying to process it.

Wil shared that Rob made him feel cherished and appreciated while he was struggling with his relationship with his parents during the filming of the 1986 movie.

Rob was a truly good person and a talented artist who positively impacted countless lives. He used his position and influence for good, making the world a better place through his activism.

I was so saddened to hear about Rob and Michele Reiner. My husband, Brad, and I were lucky enough to work with them many times on movies and TV, and I’ll always remember the incredible impact they had as actors, directors, and producers – it’s something that will truly last. But even more than that, they were amazing role models. They showed us all how to be strong advocates for what’s right – for our environment, for fairness, and for our country. They were true American patriots, and honestly, they were just a joy to be around. Brad and I are sending all our love and deepest sympathies to the Reiner family during this difficult time.

Janelle James, known for her role in Abbott Elementary, shared a story on Instagram about her first television appearance. It was a scene with Rob McElhenney, and she fondly remembered being proud to work with him and discuss comedy over the years.

“I’m speechless,” she continued. “What a tragic loss.”

Former President Obama and his wife, Michelle, expressed their deep sadness over the loss of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele. Obama shared that Reiner’s work in film and television created many memorable stories, but more importantly, he was a person who genuinely believed in the good in people and dedicated his life to making a positive difference.

I just… I can’t even begin to express how much they meant to so many people. It wasn’t just a life, it was a purposeful life, lived together. They stood for everything good, and honestly, they inspired me – and countless others, I know – to be better. My heart absolutely breaks for everyone who loved them; I’m sending all my love and deepest sympathy.

The actor, who worked with director Rob on the 1986 film Stand By Me, posted a photo with him on Instagram and wrote a heartfelt message: “Love you, Rob. Sincerely.”

He clarified he didn’t intend any disrespect to his parents, explaining that Rob had been a father figure to him. Speaking on CBS Mornings on December 15th, he described the situation as ‘surreal’.

Jerry shared, “I owe everything to Rob Reiner—absolutely everything. It’s a really tough day.”

As a longtime fan, it really touched me to read the statement released by the family of the beloved TV star. They shared how incredibly close he and his co-star were, and it was so moving to hear about their special bond. It’s clear they weren’t just colleagues, but truly cherished each other.

The Lear family is deeply saddened by the passing of Rob and Michele Reiner, they shared with Deadline. Norman Lear considered Rob like a son, and their bond was remarkably close, both to those who knew them and to the public.

The statement noted that Norman would have wanted everyone to remember Rob and Michele’s dedication to improving the country. They worked tirelessly towards this goal through their creative work, their advocacy, their charitable giving, and their relationships with loved ones. Lyn Lear, who was very close to the couple, shared that their loss has made the world a much sadder place.

Jamie Lee expressed her and Christopher’s shock and sadness over the tragic deaths of their friends, Rob and Michelle Singer Reiner. In a statement to Variety, she said their only concern right now is supporting Rob and Michelle’s children and families, and they will do everything they can to help.

They shared that they’ll have time later to talk about their creative work together and the positive influence they both had on entertainment, children’s development, the fight for marriage equality, and global issues. They’ve experienced the loss of close friends and asked for privacy to mourn.

When news of Rob and Michele’s deaths was announced, the star of Magic of Belle Isle shared a message on Instagram remembering the director and his wife. She wrote, “May God comfort those who loved them. Thank you, Rob, for all the happiness you brought into our lives.”

The actor, who worked with Carl Reiner in the 2003 movie Good Boy!, posted on X that Reiner’s comedy was intelligent and genuinely heartfelt. He described Reiner’s films as a constant presence during his upbringing, and expressed gratitude for Reiner’s contributions to the world, along with those of his wife.

The Monty Python alum tweeted that he had spoken to Rob on the phone the night before his death.

I spoke with Rob Reiner last night for over an hour, and I’m heartbroken by the news of his passing. I’ve known him since 1975, when I met him at his father’s house. He was a wonderful person – clever, talented, and always thoughtful. He even shared stories about filming at Stonehenge and his future plans. I will truly miss him. It’s just awful.

The Misery star said she was “absolutely devasted” by the news of Rob’s death.

Kathy, who collaborated with director Rob in the 1990 film, shared in a statement that she adored him. She described him as both a gifted and compassionate person, always pushing his creative boundaries by working on diverse projects.

She shared that he profoundly impacted her life. Michele was a talented photographer who captured stunning images for the Misery campaign. She expressed her deep sadness for both of them and extended her condolences to their family.

The actor expressed shock and sadness upon hearing about the death of Rob Reiner, remembering him as “a great man.” They had worked together on the 1985 film The Sure Thing about 40 years ago.

The actor, who previously worked with Rob Reiner on the 1994 film North, shared on X that he was devastated to learn of Reiner and his wife Michelle’s passing. He sent his condolences and love to their children and family.

She described Rob Reiner as an incredibly kind and joyful person, known for his thoughtfulness and generosity. He had a huge impact on the film industry and the world, creating movies that emphasized understanding and laughter. He inspired people to be braver and pursue love, and he used his platform and storytelling skills to champion democracy and support others, both locally and globally.

Sophia continued, sharing that he consistently showed up, even when not in the spotlight. He was always quick to volunteer and joined countless Zoom meetings to support organizations working to improve the world, generously offering his skills and time. He readily helped others, and over the years, his dedication has deeply influenced and inspired me. I’m devastated by his and Michele’s passing, and my thoughts are with their families and friends.

As someone who keeps a close eye on pop culture and creative legacies, I always loved Rob Reiner’s work. He really shaped the movie experiences for my generation. It’s amazing to think about how he stepped out from under the shadow of his incredibly talented father, Carl Reiner, transitioning from being a TV actor to becoming such a phenomenal director with an incredible string of hits.

Let me tell you, as someone who’s seen a lot of comedies, This Is Spinal Tap is truly a masterpiece – one of the funniest movies ever, honestly. Beyond that, the person behind it was just a genuinely kind and incredibly funny individual. It’s a real loss.

The actress from Bear shared on Instagram that meeting this man was a life-changing experience, and she truly believes that. She recently had the chance to meet him and was amazed by his willingness to chat with her, especially knowing he did it simply to make a young fan happy.

She went on to say that he was deeply passionate about his work and cherished the friendships he made through it. He was incredibly giving with his time, energy, and always had a story to share. She expressed feeling completely heartbroken.

The comedian expressed shock and horror upon learning about the incident involving Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele. They called it a terrible situation and offered prayers for a quick resolution and sympathy for the family and children, admitting they were speechless.

The Emmy-winning actor shared on Instagram that they were deeply saddened by the loss of their favorite director. They explained that A Few Good Men inspired them to become an actor, and the director’s overall work motivated them to pursue directing, a dream they still hold today.

He said he was deeply saddened by the loss of Rob and his wife, but acknowledged the significant and positive influence they had on his life and the lives of many others.

 

After learning about Rob and Michele’s passing, the musician remembered first meeting them while filming the unreleased sequel, Spinal Tap at Stonehenge: The Final Finale.

Josh posted on Instagram about how kind He and Michele were to him, saying they treated him like family and helped him achieve a lifelong dream. He described their time together as filled with joy, love, and music, creating a memory he’ll always treasure. He expressed his shock and sadness at their passing, and sent his condolences to their family.

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2026-02-21 01:49