Robert Reiner, commonly known as Rob Reiner, was a prominent American actor, director, producer, writer, and political activist. He was widely recognized both for his early television work and for directing several influential Hollywood films across multiple genres.
Basic background
Rob Reiner was born on March 6, 1947, in the Bronx, New York, to comedian and filmmaker Carl Reiner and singer/actress Estelle Reiner. He died on December 14, 2025, after a long career in film and television.
Acting career
Reiner first became famous for playing Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the CBS sitcom All in the Family from 1971 to 1979. This role earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards and established him as a major television actor in the 1970s.
Directing career
Beginning in the 1980s, Reiner gained acclaim as a director with a run of well-known films including This Is Spinal Tap, Stand by Me, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally…, Misery, and A Few Good Men. He co‑founded Castle Rock Entertainment in 1987, which produced and released many of his most successful movies.
Political and social activism
Reiner was active in liberal political causes, especially early childhood development, anti‑smoking initiatives, and gay rights. He helped lead California’s Proposition 10 campaign creating First 5 California and co‑founded the American Foundation for Equal Rights, which opposed bans on same‑sex marriage.
Public commentary
In later years he was a vocal critic of Donald Trump, frequently speaking out on television and in print about Trump’s conduct and about Russian interference in U.S. politics. He also helped launch a project focused on explaining and documenting Russian influence operations targeting the United States.
