James Woods Slams Trumps “Distasteful” Remarks About Rob Reiner Amid Political Tensions
James Woods is speaking out after the death of filmmaker Rob Reiner, calling Trump’s recent comments about him “distasteful” and deeply upsetting. Woods, who has openly supported Donald Trump for years, shared his thoughts during an interview on Fox News on Monday night.
Woods appeared on the show hosted by Jesse Watters, where he reflected on his personal history with Reiner. The actor worked with Reiner on the 1996 film Ghosts of Mississippi and said that role came at a critical moment in his life and career. According to Woods, Reiner stood by him when others would not.
“Rob literally saved my career and really put me back on track in a way that was so important and rewarding in my life,” Woods said during the interview. “He really fought for me when a studio didn’t want me in a movie.” Woods explained that before landing the role, his career had stalled. After the film, he received an Academy Award nomination. “I give all the credit to Rob,” he added.
Woods became emotional as he talked about their friendship, especially given their very different political beliefs. Reiner was known as a liberal activist, while Woods has been a strong supporter of Trump. Woods said people often questioned how the two could remain close despite that divide.
“I judge people by how they treat me, and Rob Reiner was a Godsend in my life,” Woods said. “We got along great. We loved each other. He was always on my side.”
He explained that political disagreement never destroyed their respect for each other. “I think Rob Reiner is a great patriot,” Woods said. “Do I agree with how he thought patriotism should be carried out? No. He didn’t agree with me either. But we respected each other.” He added, “Because you disagree with people doesn’t mean that you have to hate people.”
During the interview, Woods also recalled how Reiner reacted to violence in politics. He pointed to Reiner’s comments after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk earlier this year. Reiner had publicly condemned the act and said violence was never acceptable, no matter someone’s beliefs.
“I knew Charlie Kirk. I supported him,” Woods said. “People said terrible things after he died, and Rob did not.” Woods said this made the current attacks on Reiner even harder to accept. “When people say horrible things about Rob right now, I find it infuriating and distasteful,” he said.
🚨 MUST WATCH: Legendary Actor JAMES WOODS gets EMOTIONAL when talking about ROB REINER’S MURDER 🚨
— Jesse Watters (@JesseBWatters) December 16, 2025
“Rob literally SAVED my CAREER and really put me back on track in a way that was so important and rewarding in my life” 🤯
“People would go, ‘How is it that you and Rob Reiner… pic.twitter.com/XTCc0LYkfR
Reiner and his wife, Michele Reiner, were found murdered in their Brentwood, California home on Sunday, December 14. After news of their deaths broke, President Donald Trump posted a message on Truth Social blaming Reiner’s politics and using harsh language. Trump later repeated similar remarks during a press conference, saying he was not a fan of Reiner and calling him “deranged.”
Woods said those comments crossed a line. He closed by expressing his grief. “Did I agree with his politics? No,” he said. “Did I love him as a friend, an artist, an icon of Hollywood, and a patriot? I absolutely did. I am devastated.”
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