Nick Reiner Pleads Not Guilty in Deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner

Nicholas Reiner, the son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, pleaded not guilty on Monday, February 23, 2026, to charges of murdering his parents. Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead at their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on December 14, 2025, from multiple sharp force injuries [1].

Arraignment and Charges

The 32-year-old Reiner appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court and acknowledged a future court date of April 29th. He faces two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances, which could result in the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole [1].

Legal Representation and Investigation

Kimberly Greene, a deputy public defender, is now representing Nick Reiner, having taken over from Alan Jackson, who previously withdrew from the case [1]. No information regarding Reiner’s mental state was disclosed during the brief hearing. He was described as wearing a brown jumpsuit with a shaved head.

Prosecution’s Stance

District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated that his office is still determining whether to pursue the death penalty, reversing a previous moratorium on seeking executions [1]. Hochman indicated that experienced prosecutors specializing in death penalty cases would be involved in the decision. He also anticipates a delay in the preliminary hearing due to the extensive evidence involved.

Background of the Case

Nick Reiner was arrested around 9:15 p.m. On December 14th, hours after his sister discovered his parents’ bodies [1]. He is currently held without bail at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in downtown Los Angeles.

Victims’ Legacy

Hochman described Rob Reiner as “one of the greatest filmmakers of his generation,” calling their deaths “shocking and tragic” and emphasizing the need for justice [1]. Rob Reiner, 78, was known for directing films such as This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, and When Harry Met Sally…. Michele Singer Reiner, 70, was a photographer, producer, and advocate for LGBTQ rights [1].

Nick Reiner’s History

Prior to his arrest, Nick Reiner had publicly discussed his long-standing struggles with substance abuse, including multiple stints in rehab beginning in his adolescence [1]. He revealed in an interview that he had intentionally damaged property to demonstrate his need for medical intervention [1].