Nick Reiner Faces Murder Charges in Deaths of Parents Rob and Michele Reiner

Nick Reiner has been indicted on charges of murder in connection with the deaths of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, following a stabbing attack in December at the family’s Brentwood home. He pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder, with special circumstance allegations of committing multiple murders and lying in wait, according to Los Angeles County officials.

Reiner, 32, appeared in a 13th-floor courtroom at the Criminal Courts Building in downtown Los Angeles to face the new charges, which replace the original murder case from 2025. The recent indictment includes the special circumstance of lying in wait, which could impact sentencing outcomes.

“This was a profound betrayal by someone who was loved and trusted by the very people he is accused of killing,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman.

Kimberly Greene, Reiner’s appointed defense attorney, declined to comment following the arraignment. The indictment accelerates the case toward a jury trial, eliminating the need for a public preliminary hearing that was anticipated for the fall.

Reiner also faces allegations of using a knife, a dangerous and deadly weapon, as stated by the District Attorney. He was arrested on December 15, a day after his parents’ bodies were found in their bedroom. He is set to return to court for a hearing on September 15.

If found guilty, Reiner could face the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. The DA mentioned that a decision regarding pursuing the death penalty will be made in due time.

The deaths of Rob Reiner, 78, a renowned director known for films like “When Harry Met Sally…,” “A Few Good Men,” and “This Is Spinal Tap,” and Michele Reiner, 70, a photographer and producer, shocked the Hollywood community. Tributes poured in from entertainment colleagues, political figures, and more.

The family’s struggles with Nick, including issues related to drug addiction, were well-known. In September, they appeared together at the Los Angeles premiere of “Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues.”

Nick Reiner has openly discussed his battle with drug addiction, which began in his teens. In a 2016 interview with People, he shared his experiences cycling in and out of treatment facilities, including periods of homelessness and relapses.