Rob Reiner's Closest Friends Group released a joint statement on Tuesday praising the legendary filmmaker's masterful storytelling and remembering him as a “passionate and brave citizen” who did everything he could to make the world a better place.
“His comedic prowess was beyond compare, his love for getting the music of dialogue right and sharpening the drama was simply elegant,” the statement said. “He loved actors. And he made better writers.”
It was 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, James Costos and Michael Smith.
Friends wrote that Reiner was not only an excellent comedian, but also had unsurpassed directorial potential.
“From comedy to drama, mockumentary to documentary, he has always been at the top of his game,” they said. “He charmed audiences. They trusted him. They lined up to see his films.”
Friends, many of whom worked closely with Rainer about film and television projects, said he was truly a collaborative partner. Reiner directed the 1989 film When Harry Met Sally… starring Billy Crystal and the 2023 documentary about Brooks, Albert Brooks: Defending My Life. He appeared as a recurring version of himself in Larry David's song “Curb Your Enthusiasm”.
Crystal was one of the first people contacted by family members after Rob and his wife Michelle Singer Reiner were found stabbed to death in their home Sunday afternoon, family friends told The Times. That same day he visited the house and left in tears.
“If you had an idea, he listened and got you involved,” said the group of friends. “It was a privilege to be in his hands as a director.”
They praised Reiner and his wife for their political activism and commitment to helping others.
“Strong and determined, Michelle and Rob Reiner have dedicated much of their lives to serving our fellow citizens,” the statement said. “Together they were a special force – dynamic, selfless and inspiring.”
The statement ends with a quote from one of Reiner's favorite films, It's a Wonderful Life: “Everyone's life touches many other lives, and when he's not around, he leaves a terrible hole, doesn't it?”
“You have no idea,” the friends wrote.
