Shock spread on Sunday after reports said filmmakers Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife, Michele, 68, died at their Los Angeles home. Police opened a homicide investigation. As the news moved across Hollywood, colleagues shared memories and gratitude. Ron Howard, for one, praised Reiner’s work and impact.

However, the tone shifted when Donald Trump posted a message on Truth Social. Instead of offering a simple condolence, he mixed in political attacks and blamed Reiner’s public criticism of him for stirring anger. That choice sparked immediate backlash online. Commentators and everyday readers called the post cruel and inappropriate, especially while investigators still worked the case.

Meanwhile, support for the couple kept building. Friends and fans pointed to Reiner’s remarkable run of films in the 1980s, including This Is Spinal Tap, Stand By Me, and The Princess Bride. Elton John, who worked with Reiner on the recent Spinal Tap sequel, also shared his disbelief. Ben Stiller added that Reiner shaped his generation’s movie life and earned respect through both talent and kindness.

Later, reports said police arrested the couple’s son, Nick Reiner, and held him on $4 million bail.

For now, grief leads the conversation. Many people want answers. Even more want to honor two lives that mattered.