Kevin Bacon shared an emotional tribute to director Rob Reiner following the shocking news of Reiner’s death, posting a heartfelt video on Instagram that left the actor visibly on the verge of tears.
Reiner and his wife, Michele, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday, where their son Nick was being held on suspicion of murder.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, especially among those who worked closely with the acclaimed filmmaker.
Bacon, who appeared in Reiner’s 1992 legal drama A couple of good menreflected on how deeply the director influenced his life and career.
Sounding overcome with emotion, Bacon began his video by saying, “I’m not sure how to do this, but Rob Reiner gave me a job in A couple of good men.”
He went on to explain how meaningful this opportunity was to him and shared it This is Spinal Tap was his all-time favorite movie, and getting a call from Reiner left him “over the moon.”
Describing the experience of making the Academy Award-nominated film, Bacon said, “Making that film was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had on a set.”
He credited Reiner with creating a rare environment that balanced hard work with warmth and kindness.
“It really comes down from the top,” Bacon explained, recalling how the cast and crew felt safe, supported and genuinely happy while working together.
One of Bacon’s most moving memories involved the simple moments shared off-camera.
He noted that Reiner made it a point to have lunch with the cast every day, something Bacon said he had “never done … before or since” with any other director.
Michele Reiner was also there often, adding to what Bacon described as a “magical time.”
He concluded his tribute by offering condolences to all grieving the loss, saying he “sends love to everyone who knew him because I know everyone is hurting today.”
Actor Kiefer Sutherland also shared his grief, calling Reiner “one of the kindest gentlemen I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with” and crediting him with giving him an early opportunity that changed his life.
As tributes continue to pour in, Bacon’s message stands as a deeply personal reminder of Reiner’s lasting influence, not just as a director, but as a human being who shaped lives through kindness, trust and creativity.
