🔗 Share this article

Individuals from both sides of the political spectrum and the Hollywood industry are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his remarks following the shocking passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Online Post

After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood home, Trump posted on his platform to describe the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". The message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his enormous, unyielding, and untreatable affliction with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Detention

Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on charges related to homicide in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was set at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's words was swift and scathing.

“What a appalling and vile comment,” remarked actor Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. Goldberg referenced previous comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Is it possible to get any lower?"

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

Echoing this view, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "He is a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just crossed a line. Now implying Rob and Michele Reiner brought on their own demise because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Criticism from His Own Political Ranks

Some GOP elected officials also voiced disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the situation was "a family tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". Greene also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and psychological well-being within families.

Fellow Republican congressman, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the nature of the deaths. He publicly challenged members in his political party to justify the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a outspoken detractor of Donald Trump. In a previous interview, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also warned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump return to power.

"There is authoritarianism on the rise around the world," Reiner noted. "Should the United States fall, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Regardless of his pointed criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation after the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Adding a layer of historical connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who captured the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once recounted the story of the photo shoot, noting Trump's request for "a specific hair product" while posing on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.