Jake Reiner describes daily struggle with grief at charity gala
The actor presented an award to Jamie Lee Curtis while sharing specific memories of his late parents.
By Layla Richardson ·
Jake Reiner and his sister Romy spoke at the Children’s Institute Cape & Gown Gala on November 8. The event marked the first anniversary of the deaths of their parents, Rob and Michelle Reiner. The siblings presented Jamie Lee Curtis with the inaugural Michele and Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award.
Jake Reiner described the emotional difficulty of returning to the public eye. He noted that eleven months prior, he and his sister could barely stand in front of an audience. He explained that they are now attempting to honor their parents by continuing to advocate for those with fewer resources.
He addressed the challenge of maintaining his parents’ philanthropic work. He called it a difficult question to answer and an even harder task to execute. He stated that his current focus is on surviving the trauma and learning to heal while supporting the charity.
Reiner cited a specific lesson from his parents as a source of strength. He said he feels privileged by his position to help others and believes he can improve the world. He added that this belief is the primary factor keeping him moving forward.
He shared specific memories of his parents to illustrate their absence. He recalled his mother squeezing his knee during conversations and his father joking about meal timing. He also mentioned the habit of analyzing social events together during car rides home.
Reiner said the loss creates a constant desire for more time with them. He expressed a frequent wish to call his parents for advice or to share ideas. He noted that the darkness of the tragedy means he now only has the last 34 years of their lives to hold onto.
Romy Reiner thanked Jamie Lee Curtis and her husband Christopher Guest for their support. She said they have shown up for her in ways few others have. She described forming a deeper connection with them during this difficult period and felt honored to present the award to Curtis.
Rob and Michelle Reiner were found dead at their Los Angeles home on December 14, 2025. Their son Nick Reiner is charged with two counts of first-degree murder. He faces life in prison without parole if convicted. His trial is scheduled for next year.
