Medical examiner releases Rob and Michele Reiner’s bodies to family after autopsies

The bodies of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, have been returned to their family following autopsies.

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the remains of the acclaimed filmmaker, 78, and the photographer, 70, were released on Friday, nearly a week after the couple were found dead in their Brentwood home. 

While autopsies have been completed, officials said a full medical report is not expected for up to 90 days.

Authorities previously ruled their deaths a homicide, citing sharp-force injuries.

The couple’s son, Nick Reiner, 32, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with their deaths. Prosecutors allege the killings occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, December 14. 

Nick was arrested roughly six hours later near the University of Southern California and is currently being held without bail. He has not entered a plea, and his arraignment is scheduled for January 7, 2026. No motive has been publicly disclosed.

The couple’s daughter, Romy Reiner, 27, was the one who discovered her father’s body after a massage therapist reported being unable to reach her parents, per The New York Times. 

Romy reportedly left the home without realising her mother had also been stabbed and was later informed by a paramedic.

Prosecutors plan to seek harsher sentencing, including added penalties for multiple killings and the alleged use of a deadly weapon.

Nick has struggled with addiction and homelessness since he was a teenager. A source close to the Reiners told People, "They tried everything... giving him space, keeping him close, but his struggles are so deep. It’s just a parent’s worst nightmare.”

Rob and Michele Reiner married in 1989 after meeting while he was directing When Harry Met Sally. In addition to Nick and Romy, they share a son, Jake.