December 16, 2025 (Los Angeles, CA) – First 5 LA extends heartfelt sympathies to the Reiner family and to all those affected by the passing of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner.
Rob Reiner was known to millions as a TV actor, film director and producer. Later in his career, he focused on advocacy related to the well-being of young children. His commitments to early childhood development and the legalization of same-sex marriage, will always be part of his lasting legacy.
In the late 1990’s, acting on the widespread understanding of brain science and rapid growth and development that takes place during the critical first five years of life, Reiner championed the passage of the Proposition 10 ballot. In 1998, voters approved the California Children and Families Initiative, which created First 5 Commissions across the state and established a network of stewardship for early childhood programs and development services for the state’s youngest children. Proposition 10 was considered landmark policy, and Reiner and his wife would spend the following years continuing their advocacy for social and economic justice.
First 5 LA Board Chair and Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell shared, “Rob Reiner’s brilliance and impact will be remembered for generations, both on and off the screen. Alongside Michele, Rob used his voice, platform, and leadership to invest in and strengthen the life outcomes of our youngest children and their families. Rob and Michele touched countless lives with their advocacy, and in pioneering systems created to ensure that young children and families can thrive.”
Reiner helped advance early childhood policy in California, and First 5 LA remains committed to continuing his legacy of ensuring the wellbeing of young children and their families across Los Angeles County. We extend our deepest condolences to those affected by this tragedy.
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