Eric Idle says he has no sympathy for Nick Reiner, who is under investigation in the death of his father, director Rob Reiner.
The Monty Python co-founder made the comment in a social media post, according to E! News. He did not soften the statement or offer condolences to Nick Reiner.
Idle and Rob Reiner were longtime friends and collaborators. Reiner directed Idle in the 1980s mockumentary "This Is Spinal Tap," in which Idle played the band's manager, and the two remained close for decades.
Rob Reiner, 78, was found dead at his Los Angeles home. He was a director whose credits included "When Harry Met Sally," "A Few Good Men," "Misery" and "The Princess Bride." He also starred as Mike "Meathead" Stivic on the landmark sitcom "All in the Family," a role that won him two Emmy Awards.
Nick Reiner, the director's son, is the subject of the investigation. Authorities have released few details about the circumstances of the death or what led to it. No charges have been announced.
Idle's remark stands out because public figures usually stay quiet or issue careful statements while a criminal investigation is active. His post drew immediate reaction online, with some users supporting his bluntness and others calling it premature.
The two men had worked together beyond "Spinal Tap." Reiner appeared in and directed projects tied to Idle's circle, and Idle was a frequent guest at Reiner's home. Their friendship spanned more than 40 years in Hollywood.
Reiner was also a prominent political donor and activist. He co-founded the American Foundation for Equal Rights, which backed the legal challenge that overturned California's Proposition 8 ban on same-sex marriage.
Tributes have come in from actors, directors and writers across the industry since news of his death broke. Many cited his range, from comedy to courtroom drama, and his willingness to help younger filmmakers.
Nick Reiner has not publicly commented. It is not clear whether he has an attorney. The Los Angeles Police Department has not named him as a suspect, and the investigation is ongoing.
Idle, 83, has been outspoken throughout his career. He has used social media in recent years to comment on politics, comedy and his former collaborators, often without filtering his views.
Funeral arrangements for Rob Reiner have not been announced.
