Cary Elwes Shares His Thoughts on Rob Reiner’s Passing: A Heartfelt Tribute

Rob Reiner and Cary Elwes at the 25th Anniversary of ‘The Princess Bride’ in October 2012.
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Cary Elwes Remembers Rob Reiner

Cary Elwes, famous for his role as Westley in the beloved 1987 film The Princess Bride, paid tribute to the late director Rob Reiner on December 29 through an Instagram post, expressing his deep admiration. Elwes’ heartfelt message follows the tragic passing of Reiner and his wife, Michele, on December 14. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been charged in connection with their deaths.

In his tribute, Elwes recalled the moment he first met Reiner, stating, “I first met Rob Reiner on The Princess Bride. And from that very first meeting I fell in love with him.”

Reflecting on their Bond

Elwes shared that meeting Rob was a dream come true, noting his profound respect for Reiner’s work. “As we began spending more time together I knew this was someone I wanted in my life. I also knew that by casting me as Westley he was giving me the keys to the castle," he reflected.

The actor emphasized Reiner’s genuine nature, recalling how he “wore his heart on his sleeve” and felt deeply about those around him. Elwes described Reiner as a passionate filmmaker, dedicated to the craft of filmmaking. “He used to say to me, ‘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 shared.

A Legacy of Laughter and Love

Elwes fondly remembered their time together, stating, “I can’t remember a single day without laughter.” He characterized The Princess Bride as a story about love, loyalty, and sacrifice—values that Reiner epitomized. He acknowledged the strong partnership between Rob and Michele, sharing, “To say they were a great team would be an understatement.”

The actor lauded their efforts to use their fame to support marginalized communities, demonstrating their commitment to uplift others.

Rob Reiner and Cary Elwes on the set of The Princess Bride.

Clive Coote/20th Century Fox/Kobal/Shutterstock

A Lasting Impact

Concluding his tribute, Elwes expressed gratitude for the couple’s contributions to the world of art. “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,” he wrote. “Sure, death cannot stop true love but life is pain without you. ⚔️💔”

Rob and Michele Reiner at The Human Rights Campaign in Los Angeles in 2019.

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Tragic Loss

Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife Michele, 70, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on December 14. Their daughter, Romy, discovered the tragic scene after a paramedic informed her of her father’s death.

Following their passing, Nick Reiner was charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Prosecutors allege he used a knife in the alleged slayings, and they are requesting special circumstances of multiple murders along with enhancement allegations involving a “dangerous and deadly” weapon.

At his initial court appearance on December 17, Nick Reiner did not enter a plea. His arraignment is scheduled for January 7, as stated by his attorney, Alan Jackson, who emphasized the complexity of the case and the importance of a careful judicial process.