Cary Elwes, the star of The Princess Bride, paid tribute to his late friend Rob Reiner. He accomplished this on what would have been Reiner’s 79th birthday. Elwes opened up about the film and what it means to him on Instagram. He looked back on their work together and the lasting imprint Reiner made on his life and career. The post comes as a legal battle continues over the wrongful deaths of Reiner and his wife, Michele.
Rob Reiner and Michele’s bodies were discovered in their residence in Los Angeles on December 14, 2022. Their son, Nick Reiner, was arrested just hours later in the nearby Exposition Park neighborhood in connection with their deaths. He is charged with two counts of murder. Furthermore, as to each crime charged, special allegations assert that he personally used a dangerous or deadly weapon. If convicted, Nick would be facing a potential state prison life sentence without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty. He entered a not guilty plea to the charges at his February 23 court appearance. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 29th.
In his Academy tribute, Cary Elwes characterized Rob Reiner as a man who “wore his heart on his sleeve.” He remembered the warmth that defined Reiner’s spirit, both in life and on sets. Elwes couldn’t have been more appreciative for the chance Reiner gave him by hiring him to play the role of Westley in The Princess Bride.
“Thank you Rob and Michele for sharing your life and art with us. 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. Sure, death cannot stop true love but life is pain without you.” – Cary Elwes
Elwes had a lot more to say about Reiner’s unique character. He made the point of how Reiner was never inspired by money or power, rather he looked for authentic goodness in others. “This was a man who felt deeply. Whose heart was filled with love and compassion,” he stated.
Reiner’s directorial output was not limited to The Princess Bride. He also directed Robin Hood: Men in Tights and Being Charlie, a film inspired by Nick’s struggles with addiction. It was on this note that Elwes pointed out how love, loyalty, and sacrifice— The Princess Bride’s key themes— embodied Reiner’s spirit. Because of this connection, he was the ideal candidate to helm such a moving story.
As Elwes reflected on the loss of Reiner and Michele, he shared a poignant sentiment about laughter, recalling that he “can’t remember a single day without laughter” during their time together. This really resonates to Reiner’s influence and how much joy he brought to the people with him.
“Today would have been your 79th birthday.” – Cary Elwes
Fortunately, this tribute by Elwes offers some solace in reminding us of the legacy still created by Rob Reiner and Michele. Their untimely deaths have sparked a wave of grief among family, friends, and fans, highlighting the impact they had on many lives.
The case against Nick Reiner is still making its way through the courts. Cary Elwes’ emotional tribute makes clear the vast personal loss felt by friends and family of Rob Reiner. Larger significance is underscored in this sprawling and tragic tale still developing.
