Following the recent passing of Norman Lear, Rob Reiner reflects on the profound impact Lear had on his life and career. Best known for his role as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on All in the Family, Reiner has fond memories of working alongside Lear, who was like a second father to him.
In a recent interview, Reiner shared that his favorite episode from All in the Family features a pivotal moment when Mike and Archie get locked in a cellar. “They start to come together and realize that they love each other, even amidst their disagreements,” he explains. This theme of finding common humanity resonates deeply, especially in today’s polarized world.
Reiner’s connection with Lear dates back to his childhood, when Lear was the first to recognize Reiner’s comedic talent. “Norman championed me and got me started in my directing career,” Reiner recalls. “Being around him and my father taught me the importance of integrity and sticking to your convictions.”
Lear was known for tackling controversial subjects through his shows, a lesson Reiner has carried into his upcoming documentary, God + Country, which examines the rise of Christian nationalism. “Norman taught me to use my platform for advocacy,” he notes, drawing parallels between their work.
After All in the Family, Reiner achieved great success in film, directing classics like Stand by Me and The Princess Bride. Now, he’s returning to his roots with a long-awaited sequel to This Is Spinal Tap, set to begin shooting in February. “We finally came up with an idea that excited us,” Reiner explains, acknowledging the challenges of following up on a beloved cult classic.
The sequel will explore the characters 40 years later, focusing on their lives and relationships. Reiner confirms that stars like Elton John and Paul McCartney will make appearances, promising a fresh take on the iconic band.
As Reiner looks back on his journey with Lear’s guidance, he’s excited about the new chapter ahead—blending nostalgia with new insights in a sequel that pays homage to the original. “What has happened to these three guys over the years is the crux of what the film is about,” he reveals, hinting at the humor and heart that fans can expect.
