Nikki Glaser paid a heartfelt tribute to the late director Rob Reiner during her closing remarks at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards on January 11. The comedian donned a hat featuring the logo from Reiner’s iconic film, This Is Spinal Tap, as she addressed the audience after the final award was presented.
In a poignant moment, Glaser quoted a famous line from the film, stating, “Thank you guys for an amazing night, and I hope we found the line between clever and stupid.” This echoed the film’s memorable dialogue: “It’s such a fine line between stupid and clever.” Glaser’s tribute came amid the backdrop of Reiner’s tragic passing alongside his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, who died on December 14, 2025.
Glaser had expressed her desire to honor Reiner prior to the ceremony in an interview with USA Today. She noted the absence of a formal “In Memoriam” segment at the Golden Globes, emphasizing her commitment to acknowledge Reiner’s legacy in her own way. “There’s not a whole section set aside to honor everyone we’ve lost, but I have something planned that I’m going to do in my own way to just acknowledge and celebrate him,” she shared.
Reflecting on her relationship with Reiner, Glaser mentioned that she aimed to strike a balance in her tribute. “I knew him, but not that well,” she said, explaining her desire to avoid insincerity. She admired Chelsea Handler’s tribute at the Critics Choice Awards, considering it “perfect.” Glaser pondered how Reiner might honor her if roles were reversed, concluding that her approach would resonate with his spirit.
The Reiners’ deaths were shocking, as both were found with apparent stab wounds in their Brentwood, California, home. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Following the incident, Nick’s legal representation changed when his original lawyer, Alan Jackson, withdrew, and public defender Kimberly Greene took over. His arraignment, initially scheduled for January 7, was postponed to February 23.
In a statement, siblings Jake and Romy Reiner expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of their parents. “The horrific and devastating loss of our parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, is something that no one should ever experience. They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends,” they stated. They asked for compassion and privacy during this difficult time, urging the public to remember their parents for the love and joy they brought to others.
Nikki Glaser’s tribute stands as a testament to the impact Rob Reiner had on the entertainment industry and his legacy as a beloved filmmaker. The Golden Globes served as a poignant backdrop for this moment of remembrance, illustrating the ongoing influence of Reiner’s work and the profound sadness felt by those who admired him.
