The world of movies lost a giant when director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner passed away suddenly in mid-December 2025. Their deaths shocked everyone who loved classic films. Now, Cary Elwes, the actor who brought Westley to life in The Princess Bride, has opened up with deep feeling. On December 29, he posted on Instagram, mixing old set videos with words that show real pain and warm thanks.
Have you ever lost someone who changed how you see your work and life? Elwes did. He was just 24 back in 1987 when he first met Rob on the set of that magical adventure story. Right away, something clicked. “From that very first meeting I fell in love with him,” Cary wrote. He already loved Rob’s movies, so getting to know the man felt like a big dream coming true.
As days turned into weeks on set, Cary saw more of what made Rob special. The director wore his feelings openly. He cared deeply about people, always looking for the good in them. Money or fancy backgrounds did not impress him. He just asked, “Are you a good guy?” That simple question said a lot. Rob felt things strongly and showed compassion without holding back.
What made working with him so wonderful? Every single day had laughter. Cary cannot recall one without it. Rob often told him something wise: once a film hits theaters, it belongs to the audience. But while shooting, that time is yours on earth. Make it count. Make it good. And they did. The Princess Bride talks about love, staying true, and giving up something big for others. Those ideas mattered to Rob. No wonder he was the right person to guide that story.
Cary also spoke kindly about Michele. She and Rob made a strong pair. Calling them a great team falls short. Together they used their fame to help people who needed it most — those pushed aside or forgotten. Their kindness reached far beyond movies.
Think about the sound of a good laugh. Cary said Rob’s was one of the best he ever heard. It came straight from the heart. Making Rob laugh felt like winning something huge. That sound still echoes in Cary’s mind.
The tribute ends with thanks and ache. “Thank you Rob and Michele for sharing your life and art with us,” Cary wrote. His heart hurts every time he thinks of them. Losing them so soon leaves grief that might never fully fade. He added a line from the film: sure, death cannot stop true love — but life feels painful without you. He finished with a sword and broken heart emoji, a quiet nod to Westley and the story they built together.
This moment reminds us how films connect people long after the lights go up. Rob Reiner gave the world stories that last. Through his direction, actors like Cary found roles that shaped careers and hearts. The pain of this loss shows how much he meant to so many.
Friends and fans keep sharing memories. The laughter on set, the kindness off it — those things stay. Even in sadness, they light the way.
