James Woods is speaking out against the "infuriating and distasteful" comments that have been made about the late Rob Reiner in the wake of his passing. During an appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime on Fox News, the actor expressed his admiration for the late director, noting that Reiner "literally saved my career" and was a "Godsend" in his life.
"Rob literally saved my career and put me back on track in a way that was so important and rewarding," Woods said. "He fought for me when a studio didn't want me in a movie. I went from being out of a job to getting an Academy Award nomination, and I give all the credit to Rob."
Woods starred in Reiner's Ghosts of Mississippi, which was nominated for two Oscars, including best supporting actor for Woods. The actor acknowledged that they had opposing political beliefs (Woods is a Trump supporter while Reiner was a liberal activist), but he said their friendship never suffered because of their differences.
"I judge people by how they treat me, and Rob Reiner was a godsend in my life," Woods added. "We got along great; we loved each other. He was always on my side. When people would ask me about his politics, I would say, 'I think Rob Reiner is a great patriot.'"
Woods also spoke out against the "infuriating and distasteful" things said about the When Harry Met Sally director, noting that just because you disagree with someone doesn't mean you have to hate them. He also acknowledged Reiner's response to Charlie Kirk's death, saying that he knew and supported Kirk, and that he found it distressing when people said horrible things about Reiner now.
On Monday, Trump wrote that a "very sad thing happened" to Reiner and his wife, Michele, continuing to write that it was "reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME, sometimes referred to as TDS." Trump went on to say that Reiner had driven people crazy with his raging obsession of President Donald J. Trump and his obvious paranoia.
Reiner's son, Nick Reiner, was arrested and booked on suspicion of murder and is being held without bail. On Tuesday, Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed during a press conference that the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office had formally filed charges against Mr. Reiner for the murder of his parents.
"This case is heartbreaking and deeply personal, not only for the Reiner family and their loved ones, but for our entire city," LA Police Chief McDonnell said. "We extend our deepest condolences to all of those who are affected by this tragedy."
