Los Angeles, CA – Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder on Monday, February 23, 2026, in connection with the deaths of his parents. The couple was found dead at their Brentwood home on December 14, 2025, sparking a high-profile investigation and leaving Hollywood reeling. The case, which involves allegations of a stabbing with a deadly weapon, continues to unfold as Reiner awaits further legal proceedings.
The arraignment, initially scheduled for early January, was delayed following the withdrawal of Reiner’s previous counsel, Alan Jackson. Jackson, known for representing high-profile clients, offered no explanation for his departure from the case. Reiner now is represented by a public defender, Kimberly Greene, who requested the postponement to adequately prepare and consult with her client. The next court date is set for April 29, where a preliminary hearing will be scheduled to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial, according to reporting from USA Today.
Authorities allege that Nick Reiner fled the scene after fatally stabbing his parents in the early morning hours of December 14th. The Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, has confirmed that the case is eligible for the death penalty, stating that the decision on whether to pursue it will be made after a rigorous review of the circumstances. CBS News reported Hochman’s comments outside the courthouse on Monday.
A History of Addiction and Family Tragedy
The deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner have been described as “devastating” by their children, Romy and Jake Reiner, as reported by multiple news outlets. Romy Reiner discovered her parents’ bodies and contacted the police. Reports indicate that she had expressed concerns about her brother’s long-standing struggles with substance abuse and erratic behavior in the days leading up to the tragedy. Nick Reiner has publicly discussed his battles with addiction, beginning in his adolescence, and even co-wrote the film “Being Charlie” (2015) – directed by his father – which explores the challenges of recovery. Wikipedia details this background.
Nick Reiner, born September 14, 1993, attended Wildwood, a private school in West Los Angeles, and obtained a GED but did not pursue higher education. He lived intermittently with his parents. His father, Rob Reiner, achieved fame as an actor on the 1970s television series “All in the Family” before transitioning into a successful directing career, helming films such as “What we have is Spinal Tap” (1984), “When Harry Met Sally…” (1989), and “Misery” (1990). Michele Singer Reiner was a respected photographer and producer, and an advocate for LGBTQ rights.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties
The legal process has been marked by delays. The initial postponement in December was requested by Alan Jackson, and his subsequent withdrawal in January raised questions. Jackson stated that “circumstances beyond our control, but more importantly, beyond Nick’s control” made it impossible for him to continue representing Reiner, according to ABC News. The court then appointed Kimberly Greene as Reiner’s public defender.
If convicted of first-degree murder with the special circumstance of multiple murders, Nick Reiner could face life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office is currently evaluating the case to determine the appropriate course of action regarding the potential for capital punishment.
The case is expected to draw significant public attention as it progresses. The next scheduled court appearance on April 29 will be a crucial step in determining whether the case will proceed to trial. The investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the legal process unfolds.
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