UPDATE: Cary Elwes paid heartfelt tribute to director Rob Reiner, who tragically passed away on December 14, alongside his wife, Michele Reiner. Elwes shared his emotional reflections on Instagram, expressing how he can “finally put my grief into words” after the devastating loss.
In a moving video from the set of the iconic 1987 film, The Princess Bride, Elwes reminisced about his first encounter with Reiner when he was just 24 years old. He described their meeting as a “dream come true,” highlighting the profound impact Reiner had on his life and career.
Elwes wrote, “From that very first meeting I fell in love with him,” emphasizing Reiner’s genuine nature and his ability to see the best in people. “He wasn’t impressed by how much money you had or if you had a privileged upbringing. He just wanted to know if you were a ‘good guy,’” Elwes shared, capturing Reiner’s essence as a compassionate filmmaker.
He praised Reiner’s passion for filmmaking, recalling advice from the “brilliant filmmaker” about the creative process: “Once the movie is released, it belongs to other people. But while you are making it, that’s your time on the planet, so you wanna make it good.” Elwes noted that his time with Reiner on The Princess Bride was filled with laughter and joy.
Elwes further honored Michele Reiner, describing her as “a gifted photographer” and a deeply loving individual. “To say that they were a great team would be an understatement,” he stated, acknowledging their shared commitment to uplifting others and advocating for marginalized communities.
In a heartfelt conclusion, Elwes expressed his gratitude to Rob and Michele for their contributions to art and life. He poignantly remarked, “Because my heart still aches every time I think of you, I know the grief of losing you too soon will likely never go away.”
The couple was found dead in their Los Angeles home, leading to the arrest of their youngest son, Nick Reiner, who faces two counts of first-degree murder. Nick Reiner did not enter a plea during his initial court appearance on December 17. His arraignment is set for January 7, as the community grapples with this shocking loss.
This urgent tribute highlights the profound personal impact of loss, showcasing how the legacy of Rob and Michele Reiner will continue to resonate through the lives they touched and the art they created. Elwes’ heartfelt words remind us of the power of love and laughter, even in the face of tragedy.
