Rob and Michele Reiner's Advocacy for Incarcerated Man Nanon Williams Detailed Prior to Their Deaths

Rob and Michele Reiner's Advocacy for Incarcerated Man Nanon Williams Detailed Prior to Their Deaths

Rob and Michele Reiner attended a performance of "Lyrics From Lockdown" in Los Angeles on December 12, less than 36 hours before their deaths. The one-man show addresses themes of race, justice, and mass incarceration, focusing on Nanon Williams.

Williams is currently serving his 34th year in a Texas prison for a murder he states he did not commit. Over the past decade, the Reiners developed a close relationship with Williams, exchanging almost daily emails. They had extended an invitation for Williams to live with them upon his potential release. Their daughter, Romy Reiner, referred to Williams as her "big brother." Williams himself stated to NBC News from prison, "They became a part of me."

Performance and Advocacy Efforts

On the evening of December 12, writings by Williams from prison were read during the Los Angeles performance. Williams' mother, sisters, and his wife were in attendance, along with the Reiners, who were accompanied by friends Billy Crystal and his wife, and Romy Reiner.

At the event, Rob Reiner reportedly spoke with Williams’ sister, Angela Grant Clayton, stating, "We’re going to make sure Nanon gets out." Williams' mother, Lee Diana Bolton, reported that the Reiners embraced her. She later described them as "the sweetest, most loving people that I have ever met."

Williams' legal case had recently seen developments, with his appeal returning to court. This was supported by new evidence that reportedly discredits the ballistics testimony which contributed to his 1992 conviction.

Following the show, the Reiners engaged in discussions with a group of advocates, including Georgetown professor Marc Howard, regarding the latest developments in Williams' appeal for exoneration. Howard noted that the conversation focused on the progress of the appeal.