American director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer were found dead at their home in Southern California, US media outlets NBC and CNN reported Sunday.

Los Angeles police reported that two people were found dead in the home of the director of the film "When Harry Met Sally," but did not publicly confirm their identities during a press conference Sunday night.

According to NBC, the couple died from stab wounds.

Rob Reiner was 78 years old.

Initially an actor in television series in the 1970s, Bob Reiner began his directing career in 1984 with the film "Spinal Tap," about a fictional rock band. He would go on to direct numerous cult classics, including "When Harry Met Sally," "Stand by Me," and "Misery."

He sometimes returned to his acting role, and had recently appeared in the series "The Bear".

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner. We are devastated by this sudden loss and ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time," the couple's family said in a statement quoted by Variety magazine.

"This is a tremendous loss for our city and our country. Rob Reiner's legacy is deeply embedded in American culture and society," said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on her X account.

She praised "his creative work as well as his commitment to social and economic justice" which "have transformed the lives of countless people".

"Actor, director, producer, screenwriter and committed political activist, he has always put his talents at the service of others," added Ms. Bass.