Liza Minnelli shares message on loss and substance use after Rob Reiner’s death
The 70’s music icon reflected on grief, addiction and recovery following the deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner
Liza Minnelli has shared an emotional public message following the deaths of actor and director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner, addressing grief, addiction and the wider impact of substance use disorder.
The post followed news that the couple were found dead in their Los Angeles home on December 14.
Authorities later determined that Rob Reiner and Michele Reiner died from “multiple sharp force injuries”, with their son Nick Reiner arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. The case has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and prompted widespread reflection from colleagues and friends.
In an Instagram post, Minnelli shared a black-and-white image of herself drinking and smoking, while stressing that the message was not centred on her own image. She opened by acknowledging the loss and the broader consequences of addiction.
Minnelli described SUD as a “dangerous illness” and reflected on her own experiences, admitting that silence and shame worsened her struggles. “Silence only weakens the soul and deepens the harm. I stayed quiet about my own SUD battles for far too long. I believed shame was safer. It wasn’t,” she said.
She also referenced her forthcoming memoir, Kids Wait Till You Hear This, scheduled for publication in March 2026, explaining her motivation for writing candidly about addiction and recovery. “Recovery is possible. You are not alone. Asking for help is strength not weakness,” she wrote.
Concluding her message, Minnelli urged empathy and support for those affected.
Fans responded with messages of gratitude, praising Minnelli for her openness and compassion during a period of collective mourning.
