🔗 Share this article

Personalities from across the political aisle and the Hollywood industry are uniting to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic passing of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Statement

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to social media to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "due to the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Detention

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in relation to the incident. Reports indicate his bail was established at a substantial amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's post was swift and harsh.

This is a vile and vile comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, similarly criticized the statements. She pointed to previous comments from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any worse?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply stated, "He is a disturbed man."

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from His Own Party

A number of GOP elected officials also expressed dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". She also mentioned struggles with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" given the circumstances. He publicly dared members in his political party to defend the comments.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"We see autocracy on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once shared the story of the photo shoot, mentioning Trump's request for "a specific hair product" as posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.