Nick Reiner Pleads Not Guilty in Parents’ Murder

Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder on Monday, February 17, 2026, more than two months after his parents were found dead .

Plea and Court Appearance

Nick Reiner’s attorney, Kimberly Greene, entered the plea on his behalf during a hearing at the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Reiner, who remains in custody without bail, appeared in court wearing jail attire and spoke only to confirm he waived his right to a speedy trial .

He was not wearing a suicide prevention smock, which he wore during a previous court appearance in December . This plea follows previous delays and a change in legal representation. His former attorney, Alan Jackson, previously stated that, according to California law, Nick Reiner was not guilty of murder .

The Crime and Investigation

Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 70, were discovered dead at their Brentwood home on December 14, 2025 . The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be multiple sharp force injuries . Authorities have not released details regarding a possible motive .

Nick Reiner was arrested the same day as his parents’ deaths and has been held without bail . Reports indicate that Nick and Rob Reiner had an argument the night before the murders, though the nature and severity of the argument remain unclear .

Background on the Reiner Family

Rob Reiner is a well-known director responsible for films such as This Is Spinal Tap, Stand By Me, A Few Good Men, and When Harry Met Sally… . Michele Singer Reiner was a photographer, producer, and advocate for LGBTQ rights . The couple had been married for 36 years and had three children: Jake, Nick, and Romy. Rob Reiner likewise has an adopted daughter, Tracy, from a previous marriage with Penny Marshall .

Nick Reiner, born September 14, 1993, attended Wildwood, a private school in West Los Angeles, and obtained a GED but did not pursue a college degree . He has publicly discussed his struggles with substance abuse, including periods in and out of treatment .

Next Steps in the Legal Process

The case will be overseen by Judge Sam Ohta of the Los Angeles Superior Court. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 29, where prosecutors will present evidence to determine if there is sufficient cause to proceed to trial . District Attorney Nathan Hochman has indicated that the decision regarding the potential application of the death penalty is still under review .

If convicted, Nick Reiner could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty .