As the shocking case against Nick Reiner unfolds, a former colleague from his 2014 internship on Family Guy has come forward with candid insights into the troubled young man — painting a complex portrait of someone with a “dark sense of humor” and mental health struggles, yet also capable of kindness and humanity. The anonymous ex-co-worker, speaking to outlets like Page Six and Fox News, described Nick as a “dark, twisted, kind of rough kid” who was “not in the best mental health space” even then, but emphasized that he “felt very human” and could be funny at times. This balanced account adds nuanced context to a tragedy that has stunned Hollywood and the nation.

Nick Reiner, 32, stands charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing deaths of his parents, iconic director Rob Reiner and photographer-producer Michele Singer Reiner, at their Brentwood home on December 14, 2025. The couple was found with multiple sharp force injuries, and Nick was arrested hours later near USC. Recent reports indicate he was diagnosed with schizophrenia weeks prior and had been under psychiatric care, with a medication change allegedly contributing to erratic behavior in the lead-up to the incident.

The former colleague recalled Nick’s internship as a low-key arrangement — largely a favor to his famous father. Executive producers reportedly instructed staff to “just let him hang out” and “don’t let him touch anything,” given his recent exit from rehab. Rob Reiner would personally drop off and pick up his son daily, a sign of the family’s efforts to support his recovery. “It felt like the family wanted him to succeed, and they were constantly trying to set him up for success,” the source said.

Yet, red flags were apparent. Nick exhibited a “dark, twisted” personality and an “aura of darkness,” even while sober. Crew members encouraged him to try stand-up comedy, believing his humor and connections could open doors, but his overall demeanor suggested deeper issues. He had experienced homelessness and addiction battles starting in his teens, struggles that inspired the 2016 film Being Charlie, co-written by Nick and directed by Rob.

Despite the troubling traits, the co-worker noted positive glimpses: Nick could be “captivating,” “goofy,” and occasionally kind. “I really liked him,” the source admitted, adding that he wasn’t entirely shocked by the arrest given the past signs, but still found it tragic.

This testimony echoes broader revelations about Nick’s lifelong challenges. A former family yoga instructor described his emotional volatility as a “perfect storm” that overwhelmed even the Reiners’ dedicated efforts. Sources close to the case report Nick became “erratic and dangerous” after a recent medication adjustment.

As Nick remains in solitary confinement on suicide watch, his high-profile attorney Alan Jackson has urged against rushing to judgment, citing “complex and serious issues” including mental health. Prosecutors are weighing the death penalty, while siblings Jake and Romy Reiner have spoken of their “horrific and devastating” loss, calling their parents “best friends.”

The case continues to captivate, raising questions about mental illness, family support, and tragedy in the spotlight. This former co-worker’s account — acknowledging darkness while highlighting humanity — underscores the profound complexity behind the headlines.