Eric Idle recalls final call with Rob Reiner as homicide inquiry begins

The comedian Eric Idle disclosed that he had a conversation lasting more than an hour with Rob Reiner on the evening the actor passed away.

"Rob Reiner truly was a delightful individual," Idle, aged 82, posted on X this past Sunday, December 15. "I communicated with him just last night for more than sixty minutes."

Idle remembered that he consistently "found pleasure" in Reiner's presence. "Our introduction occurred at his father's house in 1975. He was discussing the filming at Stonehenge and sharing his plans for what lay ahead," Idle stated. "This news is truly terrible. I will genuinely miss him. He was intelligent, gifted, and deeply considerate. So very awful."

It was reported late Sunday evening that Rob and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, passed away at their residence in Los Angeles. Rob had reached the age of 78, and Michele was 68.

Public Figures Offer Condolences Following the Fatalities of Rob Reiner and His Wife Michele

"We are profoundly saddened to share the tragic deaths of Michele and Rob Reiner," a representative speaking on behalf of the family told Variety. "This unforeseen tragedy has left us devastated, and we respectfully request privacy during this extraordinarily challenging period."

During a press briefing, Deputy Chief Alan S. Hamilton verified that the LAPD "is actively pursuing an active homicide inquiry regarding the two deaths discovered at Rob Reiner's Brentwood residence."

Hamilton further stated that the LAPD "has yet to pinpoint a suspect" and is not currently investigating any specific individuals following the discovery of the couple, who appeared to have died "from visible stab wounds."

Deadline indicated that Hamilton "refrained from formally labeling the incident as a first-degree murder investigation." He instead opted for the designation "death investigation" and mentioned that the Robbery-Homicide Division had taken charge of the inquiry.

As the inquiry proceeds, public figures have persisted in paying tribute to Rob and Michele. Ben Stiller described the tragic event as a "significant loss," stating on X, "Rob Reiner ranked among my preferred directors. He produced several of the most influential films for individuals in my age group."

Stiller further elaborated: "He emerged from the vast comedic influence of the legendary Carl Reiner and transitioned from being a television actor to becoming an exceptional director with an astonishing catalog of films. Spinal Tap stands as one of the finest comedies ever produced, among many others. He possessed a kind and compassionate nature and was genuinely humorous. While I didn't know him intimately, I always admired his work, and I feel genuine sorrow for those close to him and his relatives."

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Sean Astin shared his personal tribute regarding Rob's influence on the film industry.

"Rob Reiner represents one of the most crucial individuals in the chronicles of cinema and television. The profound influence he exerted on American society cannot be overstated," commented the SAG-AFTRA president, 54, in a union-issued statement. "Homages will flood in, and the remarkably extensive collection of genre-shaping films and unforgettable portrayals will remain vivid in our memories and emotions. Rob Reiner maintained membership in our union for almost six decades."

Astin extended particular sympathy to the family and friends of Rob and Michele. "The global entertainment community and audiences worldwide will grieve profoundly," he continued. "Speaking personally, numerous films and performances by Mr. Reiner stimulated my mind, stirred my emotions, and most notably, evoked intense laughter from me. This is how I will cherish his memory."

Kathy Bates, who secured an Academy Award for her part in Rob's film Misery, stated in a press release that she was "completely shattered" by the announcement.

"I held deep affection for Rob. He was exceptionally talented and compassionate, a person who produced movies across various genres to push his own creative boundaries," she informed NBC News. "Furthermore, he bravely championed his political convictions. He fundamentally altered the trajectory of my life. Michelle was a skilled photographer. She captured my stunning promotional images for the Misery campaign. My heart aches for both of them. My condolences go out to their family."