Gavin Newsom honors Rob Reiner’s dedication to defending democracy and equal rights

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: California Governor Gavin Newsom paid tribute to Rob Reiner, who was found dead along with his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, at their home.

The governor praised the filmmaker’s lifelong dedication to defending democracy and advocating for equal rights. Newsom noted how their shared commitment to social justice shaped their friendship.

Gavin Newsom mourns longtime friend Rob Reiner 

In a video message posted on X, Newsom said, “I was on a Zoom with the Reiners just a few weeks back.” 

“I was just reminded about how consistent they’ve been, how constant they’ve been, in the cause of not just protecting democracy but promoting well-being, social justice, racial justice [and] economic justice,” Newsom shared.

“I was out there feeling a little alone doing same-sex marriage in 2004. It was Rob who reached out – it’s how I got to know him – saying he had my back at a time when a lot of members of my own party, the Democratic Party, didn’t,” he added.

Newsom highlighted Reiner had “been a friend for decades.”

“He actually was a co-host for an event I’m doing later this week,” he noted. “It just breaks my heart.”

Gavin Newsom's earlier tweet about tragedy

Earlier, Newsom was among the first to publicly respond to the tragedy. “Jen and I are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner,” the governor said in a statement on X.

He described Rob as “the big-hearted genius behind so many of the classic stories we love, with products as wide ranging as The Princess Bride to A Few Good Men.”

“His boundless empathy made his stories timeless, teaching generations how to see goodness and righteousness in others — and encouraging us to dream bigger,” Newsom added.

The governor also noted Rob's activism. “From taking on Big Tobacco, fighting for marriage equality to serving as a powerful voice in early education, he made California a better place through his good works,” Newsom said.

He concluded that Rob “will be remembered for his remarkable filmography and for his extraordinary contribution to humanity.”

Kamala Harris highlights Rob Reiner's commitment to democracy

Earlier, former Vice President Kamala Harris also highlighted Reiner’s commitment to democracy.

Taking to X, Harris wrote, “Rob Reiner’s work influenced generations of Americans. The characters, dialogue, and visuals he brought to life in film and television are deeply embedded in American culture. Harris said Rob loved the country, cared about the nation’s future, and fought for America's democracy."

She continued, “Rob Reiner's work has impacted generations of Americans. The characters, dialogue, and visuals he brought to life in film and television are woven throughout our culture."

"Rob loved our country, cared deeply about the future of our nation, and fought for America's democracy. Rob and his wife Michele loved each other very much. They were dear friends, and Doug and I are devastated to learn of their passing. Our thoughts are with their loved ones during this tragic time.”