‘A Man Who Will Be Deeply Missed’: Meg Ryan Publishes Heartfelt Tribute to Director Rob Reiner
Meg Ryan has posted a tribute to the departed filmmaker Rob Reiner, who was her director in the iconic romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally.
A Devastating Incident
Reiner was located lifeless with his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, at their home in Los Angeles at the weekend.
“How we will long for this man…” Ryan wrote on Instagram, next to an image of them together. “Thank you, Rob and Michelle [sic], for the way you believe in true love, in fairy tales, and in laughter. Thank you for your faith in the best in people, and for your profound love of our country.”
Legal Proceedings Unfold
Reiner’s son Nick, 32, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and was in court today. He’s being held without bail. Reports indicate that Reiner’s daughter Romy was the one who located her father.
“I must hold onto hope that their tale doesn't conclude here, that awareness can be heightened from this,” Ryan continued. “I don’t know, but my guess is that they would want that to be hopeful and humane, to be something that brings us all to a greater understanding of one another and to some peace.”
A Statement from Siblings
Reiner’s surviving children Jake and Romy released a message today. “Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day,” they said. “The horrific and devastating loss of our parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, is something that no one should ever experience. They were more than parents; they were our closest confidants.”
Peers Pay Their Respects
Ryan’s co-star, Billy Crystal, similarly honored Reiner through a message shared yesterday along with names including Larry David, Martin Short and Albert Brooks.
“His comedic touch was beyond compare, his love of getting the music of the dialogue just right, and his sharpening of the edge of a drama was simply elegant,” the statement said. “He cherished performers and improved scribes. Freedom was his key offering. He listened to ideas and included you in the creative journey. They always felt they were working as a team. To be in his hands as a film-maker was a privilege but that is only part of his legacy.”
A Storied Career
When Harry Met Sally was a hit with both critics and audiences in 1989, grossing more than $93 million worldwide and securing Nora Ephron an Oscar nomination for best original screenplay.
Rob Reiner first encountered Michele Singer Reiner while making When Harry Met Sally. The pair were introduced by Barry Sonnenfeld, a friend and director.
Reiner’s notable filmography comprised classics such as Misery, Stand by Me and The Princess Bride. The director and his wife were together in marriage for 36 years.