In a tragic turn of events, Nick Reiner, aged 32, stands accused of the brutal murder of his parents, Rob Reiner, the 78-year-old iconic Hollywood director, and Michele Singer Reiner, a 70-year-old photographer. The incident occurred on December 14 at their Brentwood mansion, valued at $13.5 million. An insider close to the situation has revealed to TMZ that the harrowing act followed Nick Reiner's growing anxiety over weight gain and a switch in medication which adversely affected his mental health.
Nick Reiner was first diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder around 2020 and had since been on a medication regimen that maintained a semblance of stability for a number of years. The balance, however, began to crumble approximately a month before the murders when Reiner expressed concerns about weight gain—a common side effect of antipsychotic medications. Past photographs highlight significant weight variations over the years, which the insider suggests deeply disturbed Reiner.
Upon his request, Reiner's medication was changed, a decision that allegedly set off a chain of dangerous behaviors. Despite these warning signs, further interventions, such as a psychiatric hold allowed under California law, were not implemented. Both Rob and Michele Reiner reportedly observed worrisome shifts in their son's demeanor but were uncertain of the appropriate response or preventative measures.
The night prior to the murders, Reiner attended a holiday party hosted by Conan O'Brien, accompanied by his parents who were concerned about his wellbeing. Witnesses described Reiner's behavior as antisocial, noting an intense confrontation with his father. Nick Reiner, who had a history of substance abuse, homelessness, and multiple rehab attempts, was residing in his parents' guesthouse at the time.
Authorities discovered the bodies of Rob and Michele Reiner the day after the murders, sending a ripple of disbelief and sorrow through the entertainment industry and beyond. Nick Reiner was apprehended shortly thereafter near the University of Southern California and faced charges of first-degree murder.
Initially, it was believed that Reiner would enter a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. However, in a dramatic turn, his well-known attorney, Alan Jackson, withdrew from the case under mysterious circumstances, maintaining Reiner's innocence. The case has been transferred to public defender Kimberly Greene, who is scheduled to speak with Reiner more extensively before his arraignment on February 23.
If convicted, Nick Reiner could be sentenced to life without the possibility of parole or potentially face the death penalty, though it remains unclear if the prosecution will pursue the latter.
