🔗 Share this article

Figures from across the political divide and the entertainment industry are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his statements following the tragic deaths of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump took to social media to label the late director as "tortured and suffering". The message, he asserted Reiner's demise was "because of the anger he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to self-praise, juxtaposing Reiner's alleged "raging obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the detention of the Reiners' 32-year-old son, Nick, on charges related to murder in connection with the case. It is reported his bond was established at a significant sum.

A Wave of Criticism from Public Figures

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

“What a disgusting and despicable comment,” said actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, also criticized the statements. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, demanding, "Have you no decency? Is it possible to get any worse?"

The state of California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly stated, "He is a disturbed man."

Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now saying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from His Own Party

A number of Republican elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned struggles with addiction and psychological well-being some families face.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared others in his political party to defend the comments.

Reiner's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation following the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the photo shoot, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.