Trump repeats criticism of killed Hollywood director Rob Reiner

December 16, 2025

President Donald Trump faced bipartisan criticism after making disparaging comments about Hollywood director Rob Reiner following his death, claiming Reiner suffered from "Trump derangement syndrome" and was "very bad for our country. " Reiner and his wife Michele were found dead in their Los Angeles home, with their son Nick arrested on suspicion of murder, though police have indicated no political motive. Both prominent Republicans and former Trump allies, including Representatives Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene, condemned the president's remarks as inappropriate given the tragic circumstances.

Who is affected

Rob Reiner (deceased Hollywood director and Trump critic) and his wife Michele Singer Reiner (deceased)
Their son Nick Reiner (arrested on suspicion of murder)
The Reiner family's two other children
President Donald Trump (facing criticism for his remarks)
Republican politicians who criticized Trump's comments, including Representatives Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Senator John Kennedy

What action is being taken

Police have arrested Nick Reiner on suspicion of murder
Republican politicians are publicly criticizing and distancing themselves from Trump's remarks
President Trump is continuing to make critical comments about Reiner to reporters

Why it matters

This incident is significant because it demonstrates a pattern of presidential conduct that many view as lacking basic decorum and empathy, even drawing condemnation from members of Trump's own party. The bipartisan criticism, particularly from Republicans who typically support or previously supported Trump, highlights how his comments about a murder victim crossed traditional boundaries of acceptable political discourse. The incident also illustrates the deep political polarization in the country and raises questions about appropriate presidential behavior during national tragedies.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC