Cary Elwes has paid heartfelt tribute to director Rob Reiner, who passed away on December 14, 2023, at his home in Brentwood, California. The news of Reiner’s death, along with that of his wife, Michele Reiner, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Their son, Nick Reiner, aged 32, has been arrested on suspicion of murder, further complicating the tragedy surrounding the family’s loss.
Elwes, best known for his role as Westley in the iconic 1987 film The Princess Bride, took to Instagram to express his grief and admiration for Reiner. In a post shared with his 347,000 followers, he reflected on their relationship and the profound impact Reiner had on his life and career.
Celebrating a Lasting Friendship
Recalling their first meeting, Elwes wrote, “I was 24 when I first met Rob Reiner on The Princess Bride. And from that very first meeting, I fell in love with him.” Elwes had admired Reiner’s work long before their collaboration, making their initial encounter a dream come true for the young actor. He emphasized that being cast as Westley was not just a role but a significant opportunity.
Describing Reiner as someone who wore his heart on his sleeve, Elwes noted, “This was a man who felt deeply. His heart was filled with love and compassion.” He appreciated Reiner’s ability to see beyond superficial qualities, stating that Reiner valued character over wealth or privilege. “He just wanted to know if you were a ‘good guy,’” Elwes remarked, highlighting Reiner’s commitment to finding the best in people.
Elwes also praised Reiner for his infectious enthusiasm for filmmaking. “He obviously loved making movies – and was clearly a brilliant filmmaker,” Elwes said, adding that Reiner cherished the collaborative process above all. “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 recalled Reiner saying.
A Legacy of Joy and Compassion
The actor fondly remembered their time together on The Princess Bride, calling it a period filled with laughter and joy. “I can’t remember a single day without laughter,” he shared. Elwes emphasized that the film’s themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice mirrored the values that Reiner held dear.
Elwes extended his tribute to Michele Reiner, referring to her as an “incredibly loving, intelligent person.” He described the couple as a remarkable team, noting that they shared a deep passion for family and philanthropy. “Their only interest in fame was that it allowed them to shine a light on causes they believed in,” he said.
The actor recounted conversations with the Reiners that often revolved around family, life, and the film industry. “Rob would always find a way to make us laugh. That was important to him. Finding the joy,” Elwes concluded.
As the entertainment world mourns the loss of Rob and Michele Reiner, Cary Elwes’ tribute stands as a testament to their impact on those they touched. Their legacy in film and the lives they enriched will be remembered fondly by friends, family, and fans alike.
