Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of Hollywood director Rob Reiner and producer Michele Reiner, pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of his parents at their West Los Angeles home.
During a brief hearing, Nick Reiner appeared alert but spoke minimally, only confirming he waived his right to a speedy preliminary hearing. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Theresa McGonigle scheduled the preliminary hearing within 30 days of April 29 to allow prosecutors to present evidence supporting probable cause for trial. Reiner, who has struggled with substance abuse, remains in custody without bond following his arrest after the killings on December 14.
Circumstances of the Killings
The deaths of Rob Reiner, 78, known for films like When Harry Met Sally and The Princess Bride, and Michele Reiner, 70, a photographer and producer, shocked Hollywood. The couple, married for nearly 37 years, had been planning to attend a political event with former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama the evening of their deaths.
Nick Reiner reportedly had an argument with his parents at a holiday party hosted by Conan O’Brien the night before the stabbings. Authorities have released few details about the crime, though autopsies confirmed both victims died from multiple stab wounds. If convicted, Reiner could face life in prison without parole, or prosecutors might seek the death penalty, a decision not yet made.
High-profile lawyer Alan Jackson initially represented Reiner but withdrew unexpectedly in January, prompting delays. Public defender Kimberly Greene now leads his defence. Neither of Reiner’s siblings, Jake and Romy, has attended court proceedings. Romy reportedly discovered their father’s body. The family has expressed profound grief over the loss.
Nick Reiner’s history of drug addiction, homelessness and past psychiatric conservatorship, which ended in 2021, may play a role in the case. His experiences inspired the film Being Charlie, which he co-wrote with his father. Authorities have not indicated any motive for the attack, leaving many questions unanswered in one of Los Angeles’ most high-profile celebrity murder cases.
