60 Minutes Tonight

This Is Rob Reiner: 60 Minutes Explores the Director’s Return to Spinal Tap

by · October 3, 2025

On Sunday, October 5, 2025, 60 Minutes correspondent Lesley Stahl visits director Rob Reiner on the set of Spinal Tap II: The End Continues in New Orleans. Produced by Shari Finkelstein, the segment This Is Rob Reiner offers viewers an inside look at Reiner’s career, the making of the long-awaited sequel, and the enduring impact of his work on film and popular culture.

The Legacy of Rob Reiner

Rob Reiner is widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most influential directors, with a career spanning decades and a diverse body of work. He first gained fame as an actor on All in the Family before transitioning behind the camera, directing iconic films such as This Is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, Stand by Me, A Few Good Men, and The Princess Bride.

This Is Spinal Tap, released in 1984, established Reiner as a pioneer of the mockumentary format, blending improvisation, satire, and music in a way that had never been seen before. The film achieved cult status over the years, influencing countless filmmakers and comedians. Stahl’s segment explores how Reiner’s early work set the stage for a generation of creative storytelling.

Spinal Tap II: Revisiting a Cult Classic

Four decades after the original release, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues reunites the fictional band for a new adventure, maintaining the improvisational style that made the first film a classic. Stahl interviews Reiner on the set in New Orleans, capturing his reflections on returning to the beloved characters and the creative challenges involved in crafting a sequel that honors the original while introducing fresh humor.

The segment highlights how Reiner navigates the balance between nostalgia and innovation, bringing back the cast and crew while adapting to contemporary audiences. It also offers insight into the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the improvisational process that continues to define Reiner’s approach.

Reiner’s Influence Beyond Spinal Tap

While Spinal Tap remains a cornerstone of his career, Reiner’s influence extends across genres and decades. Stahl explores his work on romantic comedies, dramas, and courtroom thrillers, illustrating how Reiner’s films combine emotional resonance with humor and social commentary. Interviews with cast members and colleagues highlight his reputation as a thoughtful director who values both storytelling and performance.

Behind the Scenes of a Modern Mockumentary

The segment also delves into the technical aspects of filming Spinal Tap II, showcasing how Reiner blends modern filmmaking techniques with the improvisational energy of the original. Stahl provides viewers with a behind-the-scenes perspective on rehearsals, on-set interactions, and the director’s hands-on approach to guiding the cast while allowing for creative spontaneity.

This Is Rob Reiner on 60 Minutes offers a comprehensive look at one of Hollywood’s most respected directors, celebrating his career, his influence on film, and his dedication to continuing the legacy of Spinal Tap for new audiences.

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Ryan Gill

Ryan is a passionate follower of true crime television programs, reporting on and providing in-depth investigations on mysteries in the criminal world.

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