Nick Reiner, the son of director Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, pleaded not guilty Monday to two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of his parents, Los Angeles authorities confirmed.
The plea was entered by Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greene on Reiner’s behalf during a hearing in Los Angeles Superior Court. Reiner, 32, appeared in court in brown jail clothes with a shaved head, remaining largely silent except to confirm he understood his right to waive a speedy preliminary hearing, according to reports.
Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 70, were found dead at their Brentwood home on December 14, 2025, suffering from multiple sharp force injuries, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office stated. Authorities arrested Nick Reiner later that evening in Exposition Park, after a brief search, according to police statements released in December.
The arraignment comes after a period of legal transition for Reiner. His previous attorney, Alan Jackson, withdrew from the case in January, citing unspecified legal ethics concerns that prevented him from elaborating on the reasons for his departure. Jackson, still, publicly asserted Reiner’s innocence outside the courthouse following his withdrawal, stating, “pursuant to the laws of California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder,” and claiming his conclusion followed weeks of investigation.
Deputy District Attorney Habib Balian told the court that the prosecution is still awaiting the complete autopsy report but has otherwise provided all available evidence to the defense. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Theresa McGonigle scheduled Reiner’s next court appearance for April 29, at which time a preliminary hearing will be scheduled. During the preliminary hearing, prosecutors will present evidence to determine if there is sufficient cause to proceed to trial.
Prosecutors have not yet announced whether they will seek the death penalty in the case, stating they are carefully reviewing aggravating and mitigating circumstances. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman indicated after Monday’s hearing that his office has invited Reiner’s attorney to present arguments against seeking capital punishment.
Rob Reiner is known for directing a string of successful films including This is Spinal Tap, Stand By Me, A Few Good Men, and When Harry Met Sally…. He met his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, during the production of the latter and they married shortly after. Michele Singer Reiner was a photographer and producer.
Nick Reiner remains held without bail.
