Nick Reiner pleads not guilty to murder charges in killings of parents - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by James Queally

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Nick Reiner has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, who were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home on December 14, 2022. During a brief court hearing, Reiner, appearing in a jail jumpsuit, barely spoke beyond answering routine questions. He is accused of fatally stabbing his 78-year-old father and 70-year-old mother, with authorities arresting him later that night near a South L.A. gas station. The case has been delayed due to procedural issues, with an arraignment not taking place immediately and the next court appearance set for late April. Reiner’s legal team has changed, with the high-profile attorney Alan Jackson recusing himself, citing circumstances beyond his control. Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greene now leads Reiner’s defense, but details about how his mental health struggles and addiction issues might factor into the case remain unclear. Reiner has a documented history of battling substance abuse and mental health challenges, including speaking publicly about his recovery efforts as recently as 2015. This context adds complexity to the case, potentially influencing how his legal team might defend him. The case is significant due to the high-profile nature of the victims—Rob Reiner was a celebrated director and actor known for films like “When Harry Met Sally…” and “Stand by Me.” The possibility of capital punishment looms as Reiner faces charges of murder with special circumstances. While prosecutors have yet to decide whether they will pursue the death penalty, the case has captured attention due to its tragic and high-profile nature. This story matters because it highlights the intersection of mental health challenges, addiction, and violent crime. It also sheds light on the legal process in high-stakes cases, particularly when involving individuals with public prominence. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the future, making it a compelling subject for news readers interested in true crime, celebrity gossip, and legal developments.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/23/2026