🔗 Share this article

Figures from both sides of the partisan divide and the Hollywood world are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his remarks following the tragic passing of esteemed filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Provocative Online Post

After the couple were found dead at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on his platform to describe the late director as "tortured and struggling". In a post, he claimed Reiner's death was "because of the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Detention

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the case. Reports indicate his bond was set at a significant amount.

A Wave of Condemnation from Public Figures

The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and harsh.

“What a appalling and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. Goldberg pointed to previous rhetoric from Trump regarding the killing of an activist, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "This is a disturbed man."

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners caused their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from Within Party

Some GOP lawmakers also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". She also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being some families face.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his political party to defend the statements.

Reiner's History and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a previous interview, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule if Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Despite his strong criticisms, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and condemned violence for political ends without reservation after the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

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

Rob Reiner had once shared the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "special hairspray" as posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.