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Personalities from across the political divide and the Hollywood world are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his comments following the tragic deaths of renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

A Controversial Social Media Post

After the couple were found deceased at their Brentwood residence, Trump posted on his platform to describe the late director as "tortured and suffering". In a message, he asserted Reiner's death was "due to the hostility he provoked others through his enormous, relentless, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to praising his own achievements, juxtaposing Reiner's supposed "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump called the "unprecedented era of America".

Police Update and Arrest

Police have since confirmed the detention of the Reiners' adult son, Nick, on suspicion of murder in relation to the case. It is reported his bail was set at a substantial sum.

A Wave of Condemnation from Public Figures

The reaction to Trump's words was immediate and harsh.

“What a disgusting and despicable comment,” said public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Television host Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a close acquaintance, similarly criticized the remarks. She referenced previous comments from Trump about political violence, asking, "Do you have no shame? Can you get any worse?"

The state of California's Governor, Gavin Newsom, succinctly wrote, "He is a sick man."

Mirroring this sentiment, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a despicable piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "He's just lost it. Now implying the Reiners caused their own murder because they didn’t support him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from Within Political Ranks

A number of Republican lawmakers also expressed disapproval.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or political enemies". She also mentioned challenges with substance abuse and mental health some families face.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, labeled Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" considering the circumstances. He openly challenged members in his party to defend the statements.

The Director's Legacy and Views on Trump

Rob Reiner was long a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he argued Trump was "mentally unfit" for the office. He had also cautioned about the risks of authoritarian rule should Trump be reelected to power.

"There is autocracy making its move around the world," Reiner said. "Should the United States fall, there’s a danger that democratic systems crumble around the world."

Regardless of his pointed opposition, Reiner had previously expressed "absolute horror" and denounced political violence without reservation after the shooting of a different individual.

A Notable Link: The Art of the Deal

Providing a element of historical connection, Michele Reiner, formerly Michele Singer, was the photographer who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's iconic book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had once shared the story of the photo shoot, noting Trump's request for "special hairspray" while being photographed on a high-rise with a view of Central Park.