🔗 Share this article

Figures from across the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are uniting to denounce former President Donald Trump for his comments in the wake of the tragic passing of renowned director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

Following the discovery of the couple deceased at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on his platform to label the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "due to the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post then pivoted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "raging obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump described as the "Golden Age of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since confirmed the detention of the couple's adult son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the incident. Reports indicate his bail was set at a significant amount.

A Wave of Criticism from Public Figures

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

This is a disgusting and despicable statement,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. Goldberg pointed to prior rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

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

Echoing this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a contemptible piece of trash."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "He's just lost it. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner caused their own murder because they opposed him. So sick."

Criticism from Within Party

A number of GOP elected officials also voiced dismay.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also alluded to struggles with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "inappropriate and disrespectful" considering the circumstances. He openly dared others in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's History and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also cautioned about the risks of autocracy if Trump return to power.

"We see authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously expressed "complete revulsion" and denounced political violence without reservation following the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of historical irony, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who captured the cover image for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously shared the anecdote of the session, mentioning Trump's demand for "a specific hair product" while being photographed on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.