Conan O'Brien Opens Up About Prolonged Devastation Following 2025 Reiner Murders
In a deeply emotional interview, former talk show host Conan O'Brien has revealed that the December 2025 murders of Rob and Michele Reiner left him feeling devastated for an extended period, with the tragedy remaining difficult for him to fully comprehend even now. The Reiners were allegedly murdered by their son, Nick Reiner, just hours after the family attended a holiday party at O'Brien's home.
'In Shock for Quite a While' After Saying Good Night
Speaking with The New Yorker, O'Brien described the profound impact of the experience, stating that "the experience of saying good night to somebody and having them leave and then find out the next day that they're gone" left him "in shock for quite a while afterward." He emphasized the sheer awfulness of the situation, saying, "I mean, there's no other word for it. It's just very — it's so awful. It's just so awful."
O'Brien added that he and his wife had recently grown closer to the couple, whom he remembered as "just such lovely people." The Reiners had brought their son Nick to O'Brien's party, where Nick reportedly interrupted guests, including comedian Bill Hader, with bizarre questions such as, "Are you famous?" While Rob Reiner reportedly argued with his son at the event, the specific cause of the argument remains unclear.
Focus on Rob Reiner's Legacy and Influence
During the interview, O'Brien chose not to discuss Nick Reiner at all, instead focusing on Rob Reiner's significant influence on his life and the broader cultural landscape. He reflected, "I think about how Rob felt about things that are happening in the country, how involved he was, how much he put himself out there — and to have that voice go quiet in an instant is still hard for me to comprehend."
O'Brien may have an opportunity to publicly honor his friend next month when he hosts the Academy Awards on March 15 on ABC. This platform could serve as a moment of tribute amidst the ongoing personal grief he continues to process.
