James Woods Defends ‘Great Patriot’ Rob Reiner After Viral Insults — Emotional Fox News Interview Sparks Widespread Reaction

HOLLYWOOD, CA — In a rare and emotional television moment, veteran actor **James Woods defended the late filmmaker and cultural icon Rob Reiner, calling him a “great patriot” despite their well-known political differences, during a Fox News interview reacting to national controversy over remarks about Reiner’s death.

In an appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime, Woods — himself a vocal conservative — spoke candidly about his longstanding friendship with Reiner, who was tragically found murdered alongside his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, in their Los Angeles home earlier this week.

“I judge people by how they treat me,” Woods said through tears, recalling how Reiner helped him early in his career by casting him in Ghosts of Mississippi in 1996, a role that helped earn him an Academy Award nomination. “Rob Reiner was a godsend in my life. We got along great. We loved each other.”

Patriot Tribute Amid Heated Political Backdrop

Despite Reiner’s reputation as a progressive voice and Woods’ conservative views, the two maintained mutual respect. Woods stressed that political disagreement never overshadowed their friendship — and it shouldn’t lead to insults after Reiner’s tragic death.

“I think Rob Reiner is a great patriot,” Woods said, noting they had “different paths to the same destination — a country we both love.” He added that seeing negative commentary about Reiner after his death was “infuriating and distasteful.”

Controversy Over Comments in Wake of Reiner’s Death

Woods’ defense of Reiner came amid a firestorm of national reaction after public figures made controversial remarks following the murders. Former President Donald Trump drew sharp criticism for a social media post suggesting Reiner’s political activism played a role in the tragedy — a claim widely condemned as insensitive and baseless.

The divisive commentary prompted responses from across the political spectrum, with some conservatives distancing themselves from the politicization of Reiner’s death and emphasizing respect for the family.

Hollywood and Public Honors for Reiner’s Legacy

Woods’ emotional remarks reflect a broader desire among many observers for unity and compassion at a moment marked by grief, respect for artistic legacy, and deep-rooted debates over politics in public discourse.