Cary Elwes has marked what would have been Rob Reiner’s 79th birthday with a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and collaborator, who tragically lost his life in December 2025. The emotional post was shared on Instagram, where Elwes expressed his disbelief at Reiner’s absence, stating, “Today would have been your 79th birthday. Still hard to believe you’re gone. Missing you so much.”
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Reiner, known for his iconic films, including the beloved comedy “The Princess Bride,” was found alongside his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, at their home in Brentwood, California. The couple had been attending a holiday party hosted by Conan O’Brien the evening before their untimely demise on December 14. Following the incident, their middle child, Nick Reiner, was arrested and has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, a case that has drawn significant media attention due to its shocking nature. Nick has pleaded not guilty, and if convicted, he could face the death penalty.
In the heartfelt Instagram post, Elwes shared a poignant photo of himself and Reiner from the 25th-anniversary screening of “The Princess Bride,” which took place during the 50th New York Film Festival in 2012. The image captures the joyful spirit of the pair, embodying the warmth of their friendship, which has endured since they first worked together in the 1980s.
Reflecting on the profound impact Reiner had on his career, Elwes once described how being cast in “The Princess Bride” was a pivotal moment for him. In an interview with PEOPLE, he remarked, “Well, Rob Reiner really helped me with that,” highlighting how the director’s belief in him opened numerous doors in Hollywood. He credited Reiner with his successful transition into comedy, which was further established by his role in Mel Brooks’ cult classic, “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.”
The loss of Reiner has clearly weighed heavily on Elwes, who acknowledged the difficulty in processing such a significant absence during a January appearance on the Today show. He reminisced about the immediate friendship he formed with Reiner, recalling how their families grew close over the years. “They really welcomed us and myself and my family into their family,” Elwes shared, further emphasising the intimate bond they had nurtured.
Elwes is not alone in his grief; fans and followers of Reiner have also expressed their sorrow over the tragic events that unfolded in December. The filmmaker’s contributions to cinema, particularly in the comedy genre, marked him as a beloved figure among audiences and colleagues alike. Elwes noted, “It’s a great loss. It’s hard to put into words, really,” highlighting the gap that Reiner’s death has left.
Nick Reiner’s situation has raised concerns, as his past struggles with mental health and substance abuse have been documented publicly. In a conversation with PEOPLE, Nick discussed his battles, describing experiences of homelessness and rehabilitation that paint a complex picture of his struggles and the challenges he faced in the lead-up to the tragic events. These revelations add a layer of tragedy to an already deeply sorrowful situation within the Reiner family.
As Elwes and many others remember Rob Reiner on this somber anniversary, it is evident that his legacy will continue to impact those who knew him and the countless fans who cherished his work. Elwes concluded his tribute by cherishing the memories of the joyful moments shared with Reiner, stating, “it’s very sad, but I cherish their memory and the fun times we had together.” This reflection resonates deeply within all who mourn the loss of a luminary in the film industry.