You’re going to hear a lot of Rob Reiner stories in the coming days, and I’m sure this will be the most minor.
But I had the opportunity to work for him on a small project shot at his home a few years ago. Rob and his wife Michele welcomed all of us in like we were family, and it felt more like being at your uncle and aunt’s place for a holiday gathering rather than a professional shoot.
Around noon, we break for lunch. There’s a catering spread in the kitchen, and people are grabbing seats where they can find them throughout the house, very informal.
I get my plate and look around for an empty chair in the kitchen, only to find that all have been claimed save for a couple around a small breakfast table, where Rob and Michele are eating alone.
Now obviously I’m not going to intrude, so I turn to go –
But before I can, Michele notices me and starts waving me over. “Nick, come sit down! I was just getting up!” she says, and indicates that I should sit with Rob. I try to politely decline, but she’s absolutely insistent, and urges a few others to join the table as well.
And next thing I know, I’m having lunch with Rob Reiner, chatting with him about making movies in New York City and listening to war stories spanning his iconic career. Stand By Me, Princess Bride, Spinal Tap…
It was one of those experiences you never forget, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt it happened because Michele saw a moment to create such a memory.
That such a monstrous tragedy could occur within the walls of that warm, welcoming home is literally unthinkable. RIP.
Leave a Reply