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Personalities from both sides of the political divide and the Hollywood world are coming together to censure former President Donald Trump for his remarks in the wake of the tragic passing of esteemed director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele.

An Inflammatory Social Media Statement

After the couple were found dead at their Los Angeles residence, Trump posted on social media to label the deceased director as "tortured and struggling". In a message, he claimed Reiner's demise was "because of the hostility he caused others through his massive, relentless, and incurable condition with a debilitating disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME".

His comments quickly shifted to self-praise, contrasting Reiner's alleged "intense obsession" and "obvious paranoia" with what Trump described as the "unprecedented era of America".

Law Enforcement Developments and Arrest

Authorities have since announced the detention of the couple's 32-year-old son, Nick, on suspicion of homicide in connection with the case. It is reported his bond was established at a significant amount.

A Torrent of Criticism from Celebrities and Politicians

The response to Trump's post was swift and harsh.

“What a appalling and vile comment,” remarked public figure Patrick Schwarzenegger.

Media personality Whoopi Goldberg, who called Reiner a friend, also criticized the remarks. Goldberg referenced prior comments from Trump about the killing of an activist, asking, "Have you no shame? Is it possible to get any worse?"

California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, simply wrote, "He is a sick man."

Mirroring this sentiment, US House member Maxwell Alejandro Frost declared, "What a contemptible piece of garbage."

Senator Chris Murphy added, "Trump has just crossed a line. Now implying the Reiners brought on their own murder because they opposed him. Deeply disturbing."

Rebuke from His Own Party

Some GOP lawmakers also voiced disapproval.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene emphasized that the event was "a personal tragedy, not about political feuds or rivals". Greene also mentioned challenges with addiction and psychological well-being within families.

Another Republican representative, Thomas Massie, called Trump's remarks "inappropriate and disgraceful" given the circumstances. He publicly dared others in his political party to defend the comments.

The Director's Legacy and Stance on Trump

Rob Reiner was consistently a vocal detractor of Donald Trump. During a past conversation, he argued Trump was "not psychologically suited" for the office. He had also cautioned about the dangers of autocracy if Trump return to power.

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

Regardless of his strong criticisms, Reiner had previously shown "complete revulsion" and condemned political violence without reservation following the shooting of a different political figure.

A Notable Connection: The Art of the Deal

Adding a element of past connection, Michele Reiner, previously Michele Singer, was the artist who shot the photograph for Donald Trump's 1987 book, The Art of the Deal.

Rob Reiner had previously recounted the anecdote of the photo shoot, noting Trump's demand for "special hairspray" while posing on a high-rise overlooking Central Park.