IMAX Release of Spinal Tap Sequel Halted After Rob Reiner’s Passing
Plans for the highly anticipated IMAX debut of Spinal Tap at Stonehenge: The Final Finale have been suspended after the sudden death of director Rob Reiner. The future of the film’s distribution remains uncertain as those close to Reiner consider next steps.
The much-awaited follow-up to Spinal Tap II, titled Spinal Tap at Stonehenge: The Final Finale , has hit an unexpected roadblock after the loss of its director, Rob Reiner. The movie, filmed this past summer at the iconic Stonehenge site in England, was set to capture the energy of the legendary fictional band’s live performance. The event brought together Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, joined on stage by music heavyweights like Shania Twain, Eric Clapton, and Josh Groban.
Distribution company Bleecker Street had secured the rights to the film in October, with ambitious plans for a major IMAX release in 2026. However, these plans have now been put on indefinite hold in light of recent tragic events. According to a source familiar with the situation, “the best path forward is decided with those closest to Rob and his family. ”
Tributes and Reflections on Rob Reiner
Rob Reiner’s enthusiasm for the project was well known among his peers. Eric Idle, the Monty Python star, shared his thoughts on X after Reiner’s passing, writing,
“Rob Reiner was a lovely man. I spoke to him last night for over an hour. I always enjoyed his company. I met him at his Dad’s in 1975. He was telling me about filming at Stonehenge and his thoughts for the future.”
Idle continued his tribute,
“This is so awful. I shall miss him. A clever, talented and very thoughtful man. So awful.”
Family Tragedy and Legal Developments
The shock surrounding Reiner’s death deepened with the news that his wife, Michele, also passed away on December 14. Their son, Nick Reiner, 32, was taken into custody by the Los Angeles Police Department shortly after the couple was found. On December 16, Nick was formally charged with two counts of murder, including a special circumstance for multiple murders. Authorities also allege that he personally used a deadly weapon, specifically a knife.
Given the gravity of the charges, officials in Los Angeles have confirmed that Nick Reiner could face the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole if convicted. The future of Spinal Tap at Stonehenge: The Final Finale now hangs in the balance as the family and those involved in the project determine the next steps.