Michael McKean is reflecting on the death of his longtime friend Rob Reiner, saying he is still trying to process the loss after Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were murdered in December 2025. Speaking at a press event for his upcoming off-Broadway production of Are You Now or Have You Ever Been, McKean said the tragedy was “a rough time” and that he is “still adding it up.”
McKean met Reiner in 1969 after being introduced by David Lander, and the two remained close for decades. Remembering Reiner, McKean described him as warm, funny, generous, and always ready to laugh and eat. He also recalled a playful moment when Reiner called him a “genius” after McKean brought a five-pound bag of pistachios to a meeting. McKean called Reiner “a beautiful guy” and a “great guy” to be around.
The actor also spoke fondly of Michele Singer Reiner, praising her for being “remarkable,” efficient, and disciplined in the projects they worked on. McKean and Rob Reiner collaborated on several notable projects over the years, including the 1984 cult classic This Is Spinal Tap, which Reiner directed. McKean later reprised his role as David St. Hubbins in Spinal Tap II: The End Continues last year.
Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 70, were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home in December 2025. Their son, Nick Reiner, 32, was arrested shortly afterward and later charged with two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances, including multiple murders and personal use of a knife.
McKean took part in an emotional tribute to Reiner at the Oscars earlier this year, joining a lineup of stars who worked with the director on some of his best-known films. The tribute included Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan from When Harry Met Sally, Kathy Bates from Misery, and Fred Savage, Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, and Carol Kane from The Princess Bride. McKean appeared alongside his Spinal Tap costar Christopher Guest during the segment.
Beyond his memories of Reiner, McKean is preparing to appear at New York City Center in a revival of Are You Now or Have You Ever Been. The play draws on original transcripts from hearings before the House Committee on Un-American Activities and explores the pressure faced by artists forced to accuse colleagues of communist ties or risk being blacklisted.
