Rob Reiner, the Brentwood‑based actor‑director best known for “Stand by Me” and “When Harry Met Sally,” and his wife Michelle Singer Reiner were found dead inside their home Sunday, prompting an outpouring of grief from colleagues and political allies.
The 78‑year‑old filmmaker was more than a Hollywood figure; he was a long‑time Democratic activist who championed progressive causes, especially early childhood education and marriage equality.
Ace Smith, a veteran Democratic strategist who worked with figures such as former Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Gavin Newsom, described Reiner as “a unique human being who really did make the leap between entertainment and politics” and noted his deep policy knowledge.
Reiner co‑founded the American Foundation for Equal Rights, which led the successful legal battle to overturn Proposition 8, the 2008 measure that banned same‑sex marriage in California.
He also spearheaded the campaign for Proposition 10, the California Children and Families Initiative that created an ambitious early‑childhood development program, enlisting support from Steven Spielberg, Robin Williams and his father, Carl Reiner.
Later, Reiner backed Proposition 82, a failed effort to tax the wealthy to fund universal preschool, contributing more than $6 million alongside his wife and donating to national Democratic candidates such as Jerry Brown, Gray Davis, Ed Rendell and Andrew Cuomo.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who worked with Reiner on Proposition 10, praised his dedication, saying Reiner “focused on the humanity among us” and “knew everything about” the issues he supported.
Mayor Karen Bass called Reiner “heartbroken” by the loss, highlighting that he “always used his gifts in service of others,” while Gov. Newsom noted Reiner’s “passionate advocacy for children and civil rights.”
Looking ahead, Reiner’s advocacy networks could continue to mobilize support for early‑education initiatives and civil‑rights causes, potentially influencing future ballot measures or campaign strategies in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What political causes did Rob Reiner support?
He was deeply involved in early childhood education, gay‑marriage legalization, and civil‑rights issues, including co‑founding the American Foundation for Equal Rights and leading the campaign for Proposition 10.
How much did Reiner and his wife invest in Proposition 82?
They spent more than $6 million on the measure, which sought to tax the wealthy to create universal preschool in California.
Which public officials commented on Reiner’s death?
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Mayor Karen Bass, and Gov. Gavin Newsom all released statements praising his contributions and expressing grief.
How do you think Reiner’s legacy will shape future activist efforts in California?
