Late-night host Seth Meyers opened Late Night With Seth Meyers on Monday with a heartfelt tribute to filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner, following their deaths over the weekend. Meyers reflected on Reiner’s impact as both a creative force and a deeply respected figure in Hollywood.
“I did not know Rob and Michele very well, but I’ve been lucky enough to spend time with them,” Meyers told viewers. “They were delightful people to be in a room with.”
Remembering a Personal Connection
Meyers recalled hosting Reiner on Late Night just a few months ago, describing the experience as one he deeply valued. He said the conversation could have lasted hours, given Reiner’s wide-ranging career and storytelling ability.
The host also shared a personal anecdote from a 100th birthday celebration for Norman Lear, the legendary television producer behind All in the Family. Reiner, who starred in the iconic sitcom, was also in attendance.
Meyers described how Reiner helped prompt Lear to share stories during the gathering, ultimately drawing out what Meyers called “the most wonderful story” of the night.
“I know this sounds like a story about Norman,” Meyers said, “but it’s also a really great story about Rob.”
A Talent for Bringing Out the Best in Others
According to Meyers, Reiner had a rare ability to elevate those around him. He noted that the same quality that defined Reiner’s films—drawing strong performances and emotional honesty—was evident in his real-life interactions.
“He loved being an audience and he loved making things for an audience,” Meyers said. “He was a person who was so full of love, and so was Michele.”
Meyers emphasized the visible bond between Rob and Michele Reiner, describing them as deeply devoted to one another.
Addressing Political Controversy
During the monologue, Meyers also addressed remarks made by President Donald Trump, who criticized Reiner following news of his death. Meyers condemned the timing and tone of the comments, saying they cast an unnecessary shadow over an already tragic moment.
Within hours of the deaths becoming public, Meyers noted, Trump took to social media to make the moment political.
“The president made it about himself,” Meyers said, criticizing what he described as a lack of empathy and moral leadership.
A Lasting Influence
Meyers concluded his tribute by reflecting on how Reiner’s work and conduct influenced his own career in comedy.
“He was a man who set an example,” Meyers said. “There’s such a value in that, and we have to do everything we can to not make setting an example a lost art.”
Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday. Their son, Nick Reiner, 32, was later arrested and is being held on suspicion of felony murder. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.
As tributes continue from across the entertainment world, Meyers’ remarks added a deeply personal perspective to the growing remembrance of a filmmaker widely admired for both his work and his character.
