Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have revealed that they were scheduled to spend time with longtime friends Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner on the same day the Hollywood couple were found dead in their Los Angeles home.
Michelle Obama shared the emotional detail during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday night, reflecting on her close personal relationship with the Reiners and the shock of learning about their deaths.
“We’ve known them for many, many years, and we were supposed to be seeing them that night,” Michelle Obama said. “And then we got the news.”
A Personal Loss for the Obamas
The comments underscored how deeply personal the tragedy has been for the former first couple. Michelle Obama spoke warmly about the Reiners’ character, describing them as principled, compassionate, and deeply committed to their values.
“Rob and Michele Reiner are some of the most decent, courageous people you ever want to know,” she said. “They were the kind of people who were ready to put their actions behind what they cared about.”
She emphasized that the couple cared deeply about their family, their country, and issues of fairness and equity, adding, “That is the truth. I do know them.”
Tragedy Shocks Hollywood
Rob Reiner, 78, an acclaimed filmmaker behind classics such as Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, and When Harry Met Sally, and his wife Michele, 70, were found dead in their home on Sunday. Authorities later arrested their son, Nick Reiner, 32, in connection with their deaths. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Police have not yet publicly detailed a motive, and the case remains under active investigation.
Barack Obama Pays Tribute
Barack Obama also shared a heartfelt tribute on social media following the news. In his statement, he praised Reiner’s impact on film and television, as well as the values he and his wife embodied.
“Michelle and I are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Rob Reiner and his beloved wife, Michele,” Obama wrote. “Rob’s achievements gave us some of our most cherished stories on screen. But beneath all of the stories was a deep belief in the goodness of people.”
He added that the couple lived lives defined by purpose and would be remembered for the people they inspired.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The deaths have sent shockwaves through Hollywood and political circles alike, with tributes pouring in from entertainers, public figures, and longtime friends of the couple.
Michelle Obama’s remarks came amid broader public conversation surrounding reactions to the tragedy. She did not dwell on political commentary during the interview, instead choosing to focus on the Reiners’ character and the loss felt by those who knew them personally.
As authorities continue their investigation, the Obamas’ comments offered a reminder of the close relationships that often exist behind public lives—and how suddenly they can be shattered.
