Curtis: Rob Reiner's kids closer after tragedy

Jamie Lee Curtis has spoken about her strengthened relationship with Romy and Jake Reiner, the children of the late director Rob Reiner. The Reiners tragically passed away in their Los Angeles home on December 14. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been indicted on two counts of first-degree murder with a special circumstance allegation of "lying in wait." He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Following consultation with Nick's surviving siblings, prosecutors announced they will not seek the death penalty. Nick Reiner faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole. The trial is anticipated to commence next year. Curtis, who was a longtime friend of Rob Reiner and the godmother to his daughter Annie, described feeling "much closer" to Romy and Jake after the devastating events.

Curtis also honored her friends at the 2026 Emmy Awards during the In Memoriam segment. Rob Reiner posthumously won an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role in "The Bear." This win surpassed his father Carl Reiner's record for the longest gap between acting Emmy wins. The connection between the friends also extends to philanthropy, with Rob and Michele having introduced Curtis to the Children's Institute. Curtis is set to be honored at the organization's gala on November 8 as the inaugural recipient of the Michele and Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award, presented by Jake Reiner.