Curtis, 67, honoured Reiner during the closing In Memoriam segment at the Peacock Theater, shortly after recognising the late television director James Burrows. Fighting back tears, she described Reiner as a “cherished legend” and her “beloved Meathead”, referencing his iconic role as Michael “Meathead” Stivic in All in the Family.

Reiner, who died aged 78 in December 2025, appeared alongside Curtis in New Girl between 2012 and 2018, playing the parents of Zooey Deschanel’s character, Jess Day. The two actors also appeared together in The Bear, where Reiner earned a posthumous Emmy for his performance.

“Last week, Robby won an Emmy for Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his beautiful work on The Bear,” Curtis said during the tribute. She also noted that his win established a new record for the longest gap between acting Emmy wins — 48 years — surpassing the previous record of 37 years held by his father, Carl Reiner.

“He was generous and kind, and funny as hell. And a friend to all,” Curtis added. “And we all miss Rob and Michele and all those we lost this year.”

Reiner received his posthumous Emmy at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmys on September 6 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role as Albert Schnurr in The Bear. His performance in the episode “Tonnato” earned him his eighth career Emmy nomination.

The actor received a lengthy standing ovation from the audience following the announcement of his win. The award made him a three-time Emmy winner.

His two previous Emmy victories came for his portrayal of Michael “Meathead” Stivic in All in the Family, in 1974 and 1978.

Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, died at their Brentwood home in December 2025. Their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, has been indicted on two counts of first-degree murder in connection with their deaths and has pleaded not guilty.