I was heartbroken when I heard the news that legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner had passed away Sunday, in a tragic and shocking event that also took the life of his wife, Michele Singer Reiner. His death has left a profound void in the world of film and in the hearts of fans of films everywhere.

Reiner’s work helped shape my own love of movies, alongside the greats like Fincher and Tarantino and Spielberg. I don’t think I’ll ever stop quoting The Princess Bride, “Inconceivable!” It was a film that taught me the joy of tales told with wit, heart, and intelligence. It’s a movie that I could watch a thousand times and still laugh and still be inspired by its brilliance.

Learning that my place of employment will be performing Misery next year only made me appreciate his legacy even more. Misery showcases Reiner’s remarkable talent for adapting stories across genres – from comedy and romance to suspense and horror – always with insight and emotional depth.

Reiner wasn’t just a filmmaker; he was a storyteller who understood people and how love worked, how humor healed us, and how courage can come from the most unexpected places. His films have left an indelible mark on popular culture and have inspired countless artists, including myself. I feel grateful to have grown up with his work and even more honored to reflect on what it meant to me.

Though his life ended in nothing less than unspeakable tragedy, his legacy will live on forever more.