Friends issue joint tribute to Rob and Michele Reiner

Close friends of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner, released a joint statement to The Associated Press on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, honoring their lives and careers. The message is signed by Billy and Janice Crystal, Albert and Kimberly Brooks, Martin Short, Alan and Robin Zweibel, Larry David and Ashley Underwood, Marc Shaiman and Lou Mirabal, Barry and Diana Levinson, and Ambassador James Costos and Michael Smith.

In the note, friends describe Reiner's career as a master storyteller who moved seamlessly from comedy to drama to mockumentary and documentary, noting that going to the movies in a dark theater filled with strangers sharing a common experience remains an unforgettable thrill. They praise Reiner's ability to attract and empower actors and writers and to give them freedom to bring ideas to the screen. They also cite how he absorbed lessons from his father, Carl Reiner, and from Norman Lear, helping shape a body of work audiences trusted and lined up to see.

Beyond artistry, the statement portrays Rob Reiner as a passionate, brave citizen who cared for his country and, with Michele, devoted a great deal of their lives to the betterment of their fellow citizens. It notes that the couple were strong and determined and that their lives together advanced the well-being of others.

The note also underscores their partnership in public life and service, saying that Michele Reiner was a dedicated partner who complemented Rob's work and helped extend their influence beyond the screen through civic and philanthropic efforts. The statement emphasizes that the two were a special force together, dynamic, unselfish and inspiring.

To close, the signatories invoke a line from Rob Reiner's favorite film, It’s a Wonderful Life, about how a single life touches many others and, when a person is not around, a hole is left behind, underscoring the lasting impact of the couple on colleagues and fans alike. The Associated Press obtained the statement on Tuesday, illustrating the circle of friends who say the Reiners' work and generosity will be remembered across the entertainment world and beyond.