Donald Trump has said he stands by a controversial tribute message he posted following the de.aths of an actor and director, despite widespread backlash online.

The former president was heavily criticized on social media after sharing a message about Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, that many users described as offensive and inappropriate.

Reiner, 78, and his wife, 68, were found dead at their Los Angeles home on Sunday, December 14. Authorities confirmed they were called to the property in the afternoon to provide medical assistance, where they discovered the couple. A homicide investigation was subsequently launched.

According to records from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the couple’s son, 32-year-old Nick Reiner, was arrested the following day and charged in connection with the case. He is currently being held on $4 million bail.

As tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry and the public, Trump’s message drew immediate outrage.

In his post on Truth Social, Trump described the deaths as “sad” but went on to attack Reiner personally, accusing him of suffering from what Trump referred to as “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” He also suggested Reiner’s criticism of him had negatively affected the director’s career, before ending the message with a brief note wishing the couple peace.

During a White House press briefing on Monday, reporters asked Trump whether he stood by his remarks despite the condemnation. He responded that he did, stating plainly that he was not a fan of Reiner.

The comments reignited anger online, with many users condemning Trump’s response.

Some described the remarks as “shameful” and “disgusting,” while others accused him of lacking empathy and respect, particularly given the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Critics continued to express disbelief that Trump would double down on the message, predicting that he would either defend it further or deny responsibility for it altogether.