Cary Elwes Pens Emotional Tribute to Rob Reiner Weeks After His Death

Actor Cary Elwes has shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute to legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner, two weeks after Reiner’s tragic death. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Elwes reflected on their close bond, his gratitude for being cast in The Princess Bride, and the lasting impact Reiner had on his life and career.

“I Can Finally Put My Grief Into Words”

Posting behind-the-scenes footage from the beloved 1987 classic, Elwes explained that time had finally allowed him to articulate his loss. “Enough time has passed that I can finally put my grief into words,” he wrote, recalling their first meeting when Elwes was just 24 years old. From the outset, Elwes said he admired Reiner not only as a director but as a person. He described being cast as Westley as “being given the keys to the castle,” a role that would become one of the most iconic performances of his career.

A Set Filled With Laughter and Love

Elwes described his time on The Princess Bride as unforgettable. “And boy was my time with him on ‘The Princess Bride’ beyond great,” he wrote, adding that he couldn’t remember “a single day without laughter.” He emphasized that the film’s central themes—love, loyalty, and sacrifice—were values Reiner truly lived by. According to Elwes, those qualities made Reiner the perfect director for a story that has endured for generations.

Remembering Rob Reiner the Man

Beyond filmmaking, Elwes painted a portrait of Reiner as a deeply compassionate human being. He wrote that Reiner “wore his heart on his sleeve” and cared little about wealth or status, focusing instead on whether someone was a “good guy.” Elwes noted that Reiner always tried to see the best in people and felt genuine empathy for those who struggled. His love for his family and friends, Elwes said, was central to who he was.

Honoring Michele Reiner’s Legacy

Elwes also paid tribute to Reiner’s wife, Michele Reiner, who died alongside him. He described her as a gifted photographer, an intelligent and loving presence, and an equal partner in Reiner’s life. “They were a great team,” Elwes wrote, adding that the couple used their visibility to support causes they believed in, particularly helping marginalized communities. “In a town where many talk the talk, they truly walked it,” he said.

Tragic Circumstances Surround Their Deaths

Rob and Michele Reiner were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home on Dec. 14. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled their deaths a homicide. Their son, Nick Reiner, has since been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. He is being held without bail pending his arraignment in January, according to authorities.

A Final, Heartfelt Goodbye

In the days immediately following the tragedy, Elwes wrote simply, “no words…” This latest post marks his first extended public reflection since then. For fans of The Princess Bride and Reiner’s work, Elwes’ tribute stands as a moving reminder of the personal relationships behind beloved films—and of a director whose influence extended far beyond the camera.