Police investigating ‘apparent homicide’ as Hollywood director Rob Reiner found dead with wife at home

He was a legendary figure in Hollywood

It has been reported that authorities are treating the incident as an apparent homicide after police and firefighters were called out to the couple's home on Sunday afternoon (14 December), in a neighbourhood home to many celebrities.

Reiner is considered a legendary figure in Hollywood, known for directing classic films including The Princess Bride, This is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, Misery and A Few Good Men.

Speaking to US media, a family spokesperson said: "It is with profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner.

"We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time."

It comes after police confirmed a 78-year-old man and 68-year-old woman were pronounced dead at home.

Due to the circumstances around their death, police did not immediately identify the couple.

While police described the incident as "apparent homicide", no suspect or person of interest is currently being sought and no one has been arrested.

Tributes have poured in for Reiner following his death.

The Screen Actors Guild, representing tens of thousands of actors, journalists and performers, paid tribute to the director in a statement by union president Sean Astin.

It read: “Rob Reiner is one of the most significant figures in the history of film and television.

“The impact he made on American culture simply can’t be overstated.

"Tributes will pour in and the impossibly long list of genre‑defining films and indelible performances will play in our minds and hearts.

"So many of Mr. Reiner’s films and performances made me think, made me emotional and especially they made me laugh really hard. That’s how I will remember him."

Michele Singer Reiner was also an accomplished figure as a producer, actor and photographer, and collaborated with her husband on many of his projects.

The couple met on the set of the iconic romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally,” and Reiner has said their romance inspired the film’s heartwarming ending.