Donald Trump remains defiant in the face of the backlash surrounding his controversial comments about filmmaker Rob Reiner’s recent death. Despite numerous criticisms, Trump doubles down on his statements, describing Reiner as “deranged” and detrimental to America.
The entertainment industry was rocked by the sudden passing of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michele. Both were discovered in their Los Angeles home on December 14, having succumbed to fatal knife wounds, authorities confirmed.
This heartbreaking event took another tragic turn with the arrest of their son, Nick Reiner, in connection to the couple’s deaths.
A Heated Argument
According to reports, a heated argument erupted between Nick Reiner and his father the night before the tragedy. TMZ shared that the altercation occurred during a Christmas gathering at Conan O’Brien’s house, where Nick was described as agitated and erratic.
A source revealed to People, “Nick was causing a stir among guests, behaving irrationally, and constantly querying if people held any fame.” This unsettling behavior prompted the couple’s departure from the event.
The following afternoon, their daughter Romy, aged 28, discovered the lifeless bodies of her parents, finding her father, the director noted for his recent film Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, and her mother.
Controversial Comments
A father and mother were murdered at the hands of their troubled son. We should be lifting the family up in prayer, not making this about politics.
— Stephanie Bice (@stephaniebice) December 15, 2025
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. https://t.co/blmamdoGX8
As condolences poured in from both the film and political arenas, President Donald Trump faced sharp rebukes for his remarks on Truth Social soon after the news broke.
Rather than offering sympathy, Trump seized the moment to criticize Reiner. He alleged that the director was afflicted with “Trump Derangement Syndrome” (TDS), a term Trump uses to describe extreme anti-Trump sentiment.
Trump’s post stated: “A very sad incident occurred in Hollywood. Rob Reiner, once a talented director and comedic star, succumbed to his condition known as Trump Derangement Syndrome, or TDS.” Continuing, he asserted, “He was notorious for driving individuals to madness with his fixation on me, President Donald Trump. Let’s pray for Rob and Michele to rest in peace.”
Trump’s missive was widely denounced, including from his traditional supporters.
Voices from MAGA Supporters
Among his base, voices of dissent emerged. One supporter expressed, “As someone who supports you, I can’t stand by this time. Every person deserves empathy during such times. I feel ashamed by your words. Acknowledge this lapse in judgment and seek forgiveness.”
Another urged, “Please, Mr. President, take this post down. It’s not only bad timing but unbecoming of the presidency.” A third shared their shock, “I’ve voted for you multiple times, but this is hard to support…”
Republicans Weigh In
Not just supporters, but also political allies spoke out. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the Republican representative from Georgia, expressed disappointment over Trump’s words. “The Reiners were tragically lost in a family tragedy, not a political rivalry,” she stated on Facebook, sharing Trump’s post.
She further added, “This horrific incident demands compassion, not political rhetoric.”
Georgia Rep. Thomas Massie also joined the critique. “No matter how you felt about Reiner, this discourse is inappropriate and disrespectful,” Massie tweeted.
Even traditionally supportive GOP members, like Mike Lawler of New York and Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma, joined the chorus condemning Trump’s message, marking a rare occasion of internal dissent.
Continued Criticism
Despite facing backlash, Trump persistently criticized Reiner, alleging a connection with Russia. He remarked, “Reiner was tied to the Russia plot and hurt his career by becoming unstable. It’s TDS again,” referencing Trump Derangement Syndrome.
Rob Reiner’s Views
Rob Reiner, known for directing enduring classics like When Harry Met Sally and The Princess Bride, frequently criticized Trump. In a 2017 interview with Variety, he labeled Trump “mentally unfit” for presidency.
He declared, “Trump is the most unqualified person ever to hold the presidency. He fails to grasp the workings of government.”
What do you think about Trump’s remarks in this sensitive time? Do you share Reiner’s viewpoint regarding Trump’s ability to lead? Share your opinions in the comments, and share this story to keep the conversation going!
