Outrage Explodes as Former President Trump's Social Media Remarks on Director Rob Reiner Draws Sharp Criticism

Individuals from across the partisan aisle and the Hollywood world are coming together to condemn former President Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Post

After the couple were found deceased at their Los Angeles home, Trump posted on his platform to describe the late director as "anguished and struggling". In a message, he asserted Reiner's death was "because of the anger he caused others through his massive, relentless, and untreatable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

The post quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "clear paranoia" with what Trump called the "Golden Age of America".

Police Update and Detention

Authorities have since announced the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. It is reported his bail was set at a significant sum.

A Torrent of Condemnation from Public Figures

The response to Trump's words was immediate and harsh.

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

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who described Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly condemned the remarks. She referenced prior rhetoric from Trump regarding political violence, asking, "Do you have no decency? Can you get any worse?"

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

Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost said, "What a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy commented, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now saying the Reiners caused their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from His Own Party

Some GOP elected officials also voiced dismay.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that the event was "a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies". Greene also mentioned struggles with addiction and mental health some families face.

Fellow Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's discourse "unacceptable and disrespectful" given the nature of the deaths. He openly dared members in his political party to justify the comments.

Reiner's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal critic of Donald Trump. During a previous conversation, he stated Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the presidency. He had also warned about the risks of autocracy if Trump be reelected to power.

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States crumble, there’s a risk that democracy collapse around the world."

Despite his pointed opposition, Reiner had in the past shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation after the shooting of another political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Providing a layer of past connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the cover image for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the story of the session, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" while posing on a skyscraper with a view of Central Park.

Justin Taylor
Justin Taylor

A film enthusiast and critic with over a decade of experience in reviewing movies and curating streaming content.