Rob Reiner met Michele on the set of “Harry and Sally” – and rewrote the ending. The story behind the cult film and the tragic death.
According to media reports, Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their shared home in the Brentwood district of Los Angeles. As the US broadcaster NBC reported, the police are investigating a possible homicide after stab wounds were found in both of the deceased.
Family mourns director’s death
A statement from the family, obtained by the Los Angeles Times, said: “It is with deep regret that we must confirm the passing of Rob and Michele.” Reiner was one of the defining figures of American film and television for decades. The director, producer and actor was known for his ability to combine emotional stories with social relevance.
“Harry and Sally” – Love changed the ending
His work had a particularly lasting impact with the romantic comedy “Harry and Sally” from 1989. The creation of the film was closely linked to Reiner’s own life story. In an interview with CNN’s “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace” in 2024, he explained: “I was married for ten years, then single for ten years and didn’t know how I could ever be with anyone – and that’s where ‘Harry and Sally’ came from.”
The film was originally supposed to have an open ending. But Rob Reiner’s encounter with Michele Singer during filming changed his perspective: “I met my wife Michele, who I’ve been married to for 35 years now. I met her during filming and changed the ending.”
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Legacy of a Hollywood director
In addition to “Harry and Sally,” Reiner directed other film classics such as “Stand By Me,” “The Princess Bride” and “A Question of Honor.” As the son of comedy legend Carl Reiner, he was connected to the entertainment industry at an early age. Michele Singer Reiner worked as a photographer and producer and ran the Reiner Light Studio. The couple had been married for 35 years and had three children together.
Mourning in politics and Hollywood
The news of the couple’s death sparked numerous public expressions of grief from politics and Hollywood. Governor Gavin Newsom, Nancy Pelosi and LA Mayor Karen Bass recognized Reiner’s civic engagement, while film industry colleagues highlighted his artistic legacy and influence on generations of filmmakers.