Trump Blames Rob Reiner’s Death on ‘Trump Derangement Syndrome’

Just hours after the shocking deaths of Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele, President Donald Trump posted a message blaming the tragedy on what he calls “Trump derangement syndrome.” 

Reiner, a beloved filmmaker, and Michele were found stabbed to death in their home on Sunday afternoon. It was a shocking and tragic story. But instead of offering sympathy, Trump chose to attack Reiner personally, turning the heartbreaking news into a political jab.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “A very sad thing happened last night in Hollywood. Rob Reiner, a tortured and struggling, but once very talented movie director and comedy star, has passed away… reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME, sometimes referred to as TDS.”

Trump went on to claim Reiner “drove people crazy” with his obsession over him, saying the director’s “paranoia” reached new heights as his administration “surpassed all goals and expectations.” He finished the post with a short, almost casual, “May Rob and Michele rest in peace.”

The reaction online was immediate. Many users called Trump’s post cruel and deeply insensitive.

Rob Reiner was more than a critic of Trump. He was a celebrated director, actor, and producer, known for films and shows that became part of American culture. He was also a lifelong Democrat, donating to causes he believed in, but his work was admired by people across politics for its creativity and heart.

Democratic leaders responded with compassion. Former President Barack Obama wrote that he and Michelle were heartbroken. He praised Reiner’s work in film and television, calling it “some of our most cherished stories on screen.” Obama also highlighted Reiner’s lifelong belief in the goodness of people and his commitment to action, showing the kind of respect Trump completely missed.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris also offered condolences, honoring Reiner and Michele and celebrating their lives. There were no political jabs, no attacks, just empathy — a stark contrast to Trump’s post.

The phrase “Trump derangement syndrome” is nothing new. Trump has long used it to dismiss critics. But using it in response to a violent homicide shocked even his usual followers. A murder is not a political debate. Real life is not a campaign ad. And yet Trump turned tragedy into another chance to mock a critic.

Featured image via YouTube screengrab