Dick Van Dyke “Didn’t Sleep” After Learning About Rob Reiner’s Death

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Dick Van Dyke’s 100th birthday weekend ended with an unthinkable nightmare. 

Nearly 20-year partner of Mary Poppins star Dick Van Dyke, Arlene Silver, revealed he was deeply disturbed to learn about the murders of Rob and Michele Reiner, just after celebrating his 100th birthday.

I was so worried after hearing about everything! Arlene shared on Instagram that Dick stayed up all night just to find out what happened. She described the whole weekend as strange, amazing, and just…terrible. She said she had to talk about this awful situation, and honestly, I completely understand. It’s just been so hard to process.

I always knew Dick was a special guy. He worked alongside Rob’s dad, the amazing Carl Reiner, back on The Dick Van Dyke Show in the ’60s, and they stayed incredibly close – the whole Reiner family really. It was heartbreaking to see how deeply affected everyone was when Carl passed away; their bond was so strong.

Arelene explained that she’d spoken with Rob on the phone a couple of weeks prior. She had a lot of birthday messages for Dick, and it would take her weeks to sort through them all – including messages from Rob and Michele. Dick and Rob have been friends since Dick was a young man.

Meanwhile, Arlene emphasized that she “always felt part of the Reiner family.”

Arelene remembered meeting Dick through Rob and Carl, who were the first people she knew him through. She also noted that Rob and Michele were a close couple, much like herself and Dick.

On December 15th, Rob and Michele were found dead at their home in California. Two days later, on December 17th, their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, was arrested and appeared in court for the first time facing charges related to their deaths.

Arlene, age 54, briefly mentioned the recent arrest while discussing the murders and the relationship the deceased couple had with Nick, and his siblings Romy Reiner, 28, and Jake Reiner, 34. Rob also had a daughter, Tracy Reiner, 61, with his former wife, Penny Marshall.

“They did everything for that kid,” Arlene emphasized. “They loved their kids.”

Dick was among those impacted by the life of the director of When Harry Met Sally. His friends and frequent collaborators, Billy Crystal, Larry David, and Martin Short, released a statement praising his talent and personality.

Oh my gosh, Rob was just… incredible. He wasn’t just some celebrity, he cared so deeply about this country, truly loved it, and he worked tirelessly to make things better for everyone. And Michele! She was his perfect match, his partner in everything. They were such a powerful couple, always putting others first and just… inspiring everyone around them. We were so lucky to call them friends, and honestly, I don’t know how we’re going to get through this. We’re going to miss them both terribly, forever.

Meg Ryan shared similar feelings of sympathy for Rob and Michele, and attempted to find some peace despite the heartbreaking loss.

In a statement posted on December 17th, she expressed hope that something positive could come from this terrible tragedy, perhaps by increasing awareness. She believes they would want the focus to be on hope and compassion, and to encourage greater understanding and peace among people.

For more stars who have grieved Rob and Michele, keep reading… 

The actress, adopted by director Rob Reiner while he was married to the late Penny Marshall, reported seeing her father at a family event just before he and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were discovered dead at their Los Angeles home in what appears to be 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 tribute on Instagram, saying how much she would miss Rob and Michelle. She thanked them for believing in love, fairy tales, and joy, as well as for their faith in humanity and their love for their country. Continuing her tribute to the director of When Harry Met Sally and his wife, she expressed hope that something positive could come from this tragedy – perhaps increased awareness or understanding. She believed they would want their legacy to be one of hope, compassion, and greater connection between people, ultimately leading to peace.

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

I was absolutely devastated to hear about Rob’s passing. He was, without a doubt, one of the most genuinely loving, compassionate, and kind people I’ve ever met. Not only was he an incredible director, but he had a profound impact on me, and I’ve carried his influence with me throughout my entire career. It’s a truly heartbreaking loss.

The actress shared on Instagram that she was heartbroken by the deaths of Rob and Michele. She explained they were cherished members of their community, and Rob’s work had a profound impact on people all over the world.

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.

She described the couple as “wonderful, caring, smart, funny, and generous.” In an Instagram post on December 15th, she shared that she had seen them just two nights before, and they seemed healthy and happy. She added that she was devastated and shocked by the news.

The actress shared on Instagram that her A Few Good Men director and his wife were incredible people and devoted parents who dedicated their lives to making a positive impact. She expressed her deepest sympathy, saying her thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by their loss.

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

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 experiences and memories they created 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” in response to the director’s death.

I seriously can’t believe it! When I heard about Rob Reiner and Michele’s passing, I was absolutely devastated. I just had to post something, and all I could manage was, “I’m totally shocked and so incredibly saddened, but I #LOVE U ROB! You’ll be missed forever!” It feels like losing a piece of my childhood, honestly. He was amazing!

The director of A Simple Favor shared a beloved photo and a heartfelt tribute, calling Rob her hero, a visionary, and a genuinely kind person.

It feels strange even thinking about posting anything when something so awful has happened. But I just need everyone to understand what so many of us who knew him already knew: Rob was truly the best. It’s hard to put into words how much he meant to all of us.

I was so heartbroken to hear about Rob’s passing. The actress who played alongside him on New Girl – he was like a father to her on the show – said she was absolutely devastated, and her tribute really captured how much he meant to everyone.

She shared on Instagram that she was heartbroken by the loss of Rob Reiner, describing him as incredibly kind, funny, and generous. She praised him as both a talented artist and a joy to work with, saying she’ll always treasure their time together and how his films influenced her life.

She fondly remembered Rob and Michele, saying they were always kind and she cherished every chance she had to see them.

The actor from Stand By Me found out about the director’s death from his fellow actor, 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 cared for, appreciated, and understood, especially when he was struggling with his relationship with his parents while filming the 1986 movie.

Rob was a kind and talented person who created beautiful art and positively impacted countless lives. His dedication to making a difference, and his willingness to use his platform for good, truly made the world a better place.

I was so fortunate to work with Rob and Michele Reiner many times on movies and TV, and their talent as actors, directors, and producers will always be remembered,” wrote the Seinfeld star on Instagram. “But even more than that, they showed us all how to be dedicated activists, fighting for the environment, fairness, and our country. They were true American patriots and a joy to be around. Our hearts go out to the Reiner family.

Janelle James, known for her role in Abbott Elementary, shared on Instagram that her very first TV appearance was a scene with Rob McElhenney. She fondly remembered being proud to work with him and discuss comedy over the years.

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

Barack Obama and Michelle Obama were deeply saddened to hear about the deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele. Obama shared on X that Reiner’s films and TV shows brought many beloved stories to life, and that he was a person who fundamentally believed in the goodness of people and dedicated his life to making a positive difference.

He went on to say that both he and his wife lived meaningful lives full of purpose. They will be fondly remembered for the principles they believed in and the many people they touched. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to everyone who knew and loved them.

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

He clarified he wasn’t trying to offend his parents, explaining that Rob felt like a father figure to him, as he shared on CBS Mornings on December 15th. He described the situation as unreal.

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

As a longtime fan, it really touched me to read the statement released by their family. It was so clear how incredibly close they were, and it’s heartbreaking to think of the loss everyone is feeling.

The Lear family expressed their deep sadness over the passing of Rob and Michele Reiner, telling Deadline that Norman Lear considered Rob like a son and the two shared an incredibly close bond that was evident to everyone who knew them.

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, advocacy, charitable giving, and the love they shared with those closest to them. Lyn Lear, a longtime friend, expressed that their loss has made the world a much sadder place.

Jamie Lee expressed her and Christopher’s devastation 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 would talk later about their creative work together and the positive changes both had made in entertainment, children’s development, the fight for marriage equality, and global issues. They asked for privacy as they mourn the loss of dear friends.

When Rob and Michele’s deaths were announced, the star of Magic of Belle Isle shared a message on Instagram, writing, “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 film Good Boy!, posted on X that Reiner’s humor was clever and his kindness genuine. He said Reiner’s movies felt like a constant presence in their lives and expressed gratitude for Reiner and his wife’s contributions to the world.

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

I was so saddened to hear about Rob Reiner. I had the pleasure of speaking with him just last night for over an hour, and I always cherished our time together. I first met him way back in 1975 at his father’s place, and I remember him telling me stories about filming at Stonehenge and sharing his hopes for what was to come. It’s just awful news. I’m going to miss him terribly – he was such a clever, talented, and genuinely thoughtful person. It’s truly awful.

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

Kathy, who collaborated with the director on a film in the 1990s, shared with NBC that she was a big fan of Rob. 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 deep sadness for both him and his family, and sent her condolences to them.

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

Oh my gosh, I just saw the news and I’m completely heartbroken! Apparently, Rob Reiner—you guys, the Rob Reiner who directed so many amazing things, including North where he worked with my favorite actor—has passed away, along with his wife Michelle. It’s just… awful. I’m sending all my love and support to their children and family right now. I can’t even imagine how they must be feeling. He was a legend!

She described Rob Reiner as an incredibly kind and generous person, full of joy and thoughtfulness. He had a huge impact on the film industry and the world, creating movies that highlighted empathy and humor. He inspired people to be braver and take chances in the pursuit of love. Using his platform and storytelling skills, he also championed democracy and supported communities both locally and globally.

Sophia continued, sharing how he consistently showed up, even when no one was watching. He was always quick to volunteer and join countless Zoom meetings, supporting organizations working to improve the world. He generously offered his skills and time, always saying ‘yes’ to help others. Over the years I’ve known him through this work, he’s been a positive influence and inspiration. I’m devastated by his and Michele’s passing, and my thoughts are with their families and friends.

I’ve always loved Rob Reiner as a director,” said the actor known for Zoolander in a post on X. “He created some of the most influential films for people my age. He stepped out from under the shadow of his incredibly funny father, Carl Reiner, and transitioned from being a TV actor to becoming a truly fantastic director with an amazing film career.

He added that Spinal Tap is a truly hilarious film – and that’s just one example of his great taste. He was also a genuinely kind and very funny person.

The actress from Bear shared on Instagram that meeting this man had a profound impact on her life, and she truly believes that. She was lucky enough to meet him recently and was amazed by his willingness to chat with her, simply because he wanted to be kind to a fan.

She went on to say that he was passionate about his work and cherished the people he worked with. He freely shared his time, energy, and experiences, and she was devastated by the loss.

The comedian expressed shock and sadness after 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 to the family and children, admitting they were speechless.

I’m absolutely heartbroken over the loss of my all-time favorite director. Seriously, A Few Good Men is the movie that made me want to become an actor in the first place! And Rob’s work as a director – everything he’s ever done behind the camera – is still the reason I dream of directing myself. It’s just… everything. I’m devastated.

Honestly, it absolutely breaks my heart that Rob and his wife are gone. They meant so much to me, and it’s not just me – they touched the lives of so many people. Their influence will always stay with me, and I know I’m not the only one who feels that way.

 

After hearing about the deaths of Rob and Michele, the musician remembered first meeting them while filming the upcoming movie, Spinal Tap at Stonehenge: The Final Finale.

Josh posted on Instagram about how kind he and Michele were, 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 – a memory he’ll always treasure. He expressed his shock and sadness at their passing, and sent his condolences to their family.

As someone who’s been in this business a long time, I was so moved by Cary Elwes’ beautiful words about Rob. It’s clear Rob wasn’t just a colleague, but a huge part of Cary’s life, and that’s incredibly touching. My heart goes out to Cary and everyone who’s grieving this devastating loss. Sending all my love, positive energy, and prayers for strength and healing during this unbelievably sad time. Thinking of you, my friend.

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2025-12-18 00:51