🔗 Share this article

Figures from across the political divide and the Hollywood industry are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the shocking deaths of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Statement

After the couple were found deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump took to social media to label the late director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments then pivoted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Detention

Police have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in connection with the case. Reports indicate his bail was established at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The reaction to Trump's words was swift and harsh.

“What a disgusting and vile comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the remarks. She pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "This is a disturbed man."

Echoing this view, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from Within Party

A number of GOP elected officials also expressed disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also alluded to challenges with substance abuse and mental health some families face.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He publicly challenged others in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. During a past interview, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"We see autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner noted. "If we fall, there’s a danger that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his strong opposition, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and denounced violence for political ends unequivocally following the killing of another political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the story of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.