Rob Reiner, whose film ‘Stand by Me’ shaped Oregon movie history, dies
Published 9:07 pm Sunday, December 14, 2025
Rob Reiner, the celebrated actor and director who’s 1986 film “Stand By Me” helped put Oregon on the map for Hollywood filming, has died.
According to the Los Angeles Times, Reiner, 78, and his wife, Michelle Singer Reiner, 68, were found dead in their Brentwood, California home on Sunday, Dec. 14. Their deaths are being investigated as possible homicides.
“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner,” a family spokesperson said in a statement. “We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.”
Reiner’s career spanned more than five decades and touched nearly every corner of American popular culture, from sitcoms and courtroom dramas to fairy tales. His filmography includes “The Princess Bride,” “This is Spinal Tap,” “When Harry Met Sally…” and many others.
The son of legendary comedian Carl Reiner, Rob Reiner started his career as an actor, appearing on the television series “All in the Family” in the 1970s before moving behind the camera. He primarily made comedies before directing 1986’s “Stand by Me.”
Reiner shot the film in and around Brownsville south of Albany, doubling as the fictional town of Castle Rock, as well as around Lane and Linn counties.
Based on the novella by Stephen King, “Stand By Me” follows four boys on a journey to find a dead body. The film explores ideas of friendship, loss and the end of childhood.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award and two Golden Globes — including one for Reiner as best director — and became a part of Oregon’s cultural landscape. Brownsville has hosted an annual Stand By Me Day since 2007.
