Rob Reiner: A life of outstanding storytelling

The world is in mourning after learning of the deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner, who were found at their home in Los Angeles, victims of an “apparent homicide”.

During his life, Reiner was one of Hollywood’s most versatile and influential storytellers, a filmmaker who moved effortlessly between comedy, romance and drama.

From his early success as a sitcom star to an extraordinary run of genre-defining films behind the camera, these are his career milestones...

Hollywood in his blood

Born in New York City in 1947, Rob Reiner grew up surrounded by comedy and creativity as the son of television legend Carl Reiner. Regularly exposed to writers, performers and entertainers at home, Reiner developed a deep understanding of character and humour long before entering the industry himself. After studying at UCLA Film School, he began carving out his own path in television.

Becoming 'Meathead' on All in the Family

Reiner’s breakout role came in 1971 when he was cast as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on Norman Lear’s groundbreaking sitcom All in the Family. Playing the outspoken, liberal son-in-law to Archie Bunker, Reiner became a key part of one of the most influential shows in TV history. The role earned him two Emmy Awards and made him a household name, while also sharpening his instincts for socially aware storytelling.

Taking control behind the camera

After leaving All in the Family in 1979, Reiner shifted his focus to directing, determined to tell stories on his own terms. He founded Castle Rock Entertainment, a move that would later help nurture countless acclaimed films and television projects. His directorial debut was just around the corner — and it would be anything but conventional.

Rock satire with This Is Spinal Tap

Reiner made his feature directorial debut with This Is Spinal Tap (1984), a mockumentary following a fictional British heavy metal band played by Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer. Appearing on screen as filmmaker Marty DiBergi, Reiner helped pioneer the mockumentary format, blending improvisation with razor-sharp satire. The film became a cult classic and is now widely regarded as one of the greatest comedies ever made.

Childhood and friendship in Stand By Me

In 1986, Reiner surprised audiences with the deeply emotional Stand By Me, based on a novella by Stephen King. Starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman and Jerry O’Connell, the film follows four boys on a journey to find a missing body — and themselves. Its tender exploration of friendship, grief and growing up cemented Reiner’s reputation as a director with remarkable emotional range.