Conan O'Brien breaks silence over killing of Rob and Michele Reiner - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Clara Harter

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Conan O'Brien has spoken out about the tragic deaths of his friends Rob and Michele Reiner, who were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home just hours after attending a holiday party at O'Brien's house. In an interview with "The New Yorker Radio Hour" podcast, O'Brien expressed his shock and grief over the incident, describing it as "awful" and reflecting on how he was left in disbelief after saying goodnight to the couple the night before their passing. O'Brien shared his close relationship with Rob Reiner, praising him as a filmmaking legend and an advocate for important causes like early childhood education and gay marriage. The two were not only friends but also professional collaborators, with Reiner appearing on O'Brien's show in 1999 and later on his podcast. O'Brien highlighted Reiner's talent, noting how his work influenced generations of filmmakers and fans alike. The tragic event unfolded when the couple's son, Nick Reiner, was arrested and charged with their murders. Sources at the holiday party reported witnessing a heated argument between Nick and his parents. Authorities believe the killings occurred in the early hours of December 14, with the bodies discovered by their daughter 12 hours later. Nick Reiner has faced charges of first-degree murder and has a history of mental health struggles and substance use. His legal team changed following his arraignment, raising questions about how these issues might impact the trial. The case has drawn significant attention due to the victims' prominence and the senseless nature of the crime, leaving many reflecting on the loss of Rob Reiner's influential voice in Hollywood and beyond. This story matters as it highlights the shocking violence that can occur within seemingly ordinary circumstances and underscores the importance of addressing mental health challenges. It also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of losing such a dedicated and impactful individual as Rob Reiner, who was not only a talented filmmaker but also a vocal advocate for social change.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/21/2026