Nick Reiner Pleads Not Guilty In Parents’ Murder Case

The son of acclaimed filmmaker Rob Reiner stood before a Los Angeles judge Monday and entered a plea of not guilty to charges that he murdered both of his parents in a case that has stunned Hollywood.

Nick Reiner, 32, faces two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner. Prosecutors have added a special circumstance allegation for multiple homicides a designation that could expose him to life in prison without parole or even the death penalty.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman has confirmed the case is death penalty eligible.

Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead in their home on December 14. Authorities have not publicly detailed all evidence in the case, but police documents state that the couple’s daughter, Romy, discovered their bodies.

According to responding officers, Romy told investigators that her brother had been living at the residence and described him as “dangerous.”

The killings sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Rob Reiner, known for directing films such as When Harry Met Sally, A Few Good Men, and The Princess Bride, has long been one of Hollywood’s most recognizable creative figures.

During Monday’s arraignment, Nick Reiner spoke only to answer routine questions from the court. No formal defense strategy has been outlined.

Previous reporting has referenced alleged struggles with substance abuse and mental health issues. However, it remains unclear whether those factors will play a role in his legal defense.

Legal analysts note that first-degree murder charges in California require proof of premeditation and intent. Convictions can carry sentences of:

• 25 years to life

• Life without parole

• Capital punishment under special circumstances

While California currently maintains a moratorium on executions, capital sentencing remains legally available in qualifying cases.

Last month, Reiner’s attorney, Alan Jackson, withdrew from the case without publicly detailing the reason.

Jackson is known for handling high-profile criminal cases, including representing Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein. He most recently defended Karen Read, who was acquitted in the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe.

Jackson told reporters he could not “legally or ethically” disclose why he stepped away but said he had devoted “literally every waking hour” to reviewing the case.

The withdrawal has fueled speculation, though no official explanation has been provided.

Following the arraignment, Nick Reiner’s siblings, Romy and Jake, issued a statement describing their grief.

“Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day,” they said. “They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends.”

As the case moves forward, prosecutors will begin laying out evidence while defense counsel prepares for what could become one of the most closely watched trials in Los Angeles in years.

The next court date has not yet been publicly announced.

For continuing updates on this developing case, share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more coverage.