THE SON OF Hollywood director Rob Reiner pleaded not guilty to the fatal stabbing of both of his parents when he appeared in a Los Angeles court today.

Nick Reiner faces two counts of first-degree murder over the double killing that sent shockwaves through Hollywood days before Christmas.

The 32-year-old was arrested on 14 December after the bodies of his filmmaker father and his mother, photographer Michele Singer Reiner, were discovered at their home in the upmarket Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Prosecutors said 79-year-old Rob Reiner – who directed huge hits including “When Harry Met Sally” and “A Few Good Men” – and his wife, 70, were stabbed to death.

Nick Reiner, who has a history of addiction, appeared in a downtown courtroom where he was formally told what charges he faces and had his rights explained.

A plea of “not guilty” is common at this stage, regardless of what the defense later does.

Reiner, who remains in jail and has not been granted bail, was ordered to return to court on 29 April.