🔗 Share this article

Individuals from both sides of the political spectrum and the entertainment world are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic deaths of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple dead at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on his platform to label the late director as "anguished and suffering". The post, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bond was established at a substantial sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

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

This is a appalling and despicable comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced previous comments from Trump about political violence, demanding, "Do you have no shame? Can you get any lower?"

California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a sick man."

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

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now saying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they didn’t support him. So sick."

Rebuke from His Own Political Ranks

Some Republican lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also alluded to challenges with addiction and mental health some families face.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the nature of the deaths. He publicly dared others in his political party to defend the statements.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In a past conversation, he stated Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy should Trump return to power.

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

Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation following the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

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