A murder probe has been launched after Hollywood actor-director Rob Reiner and his wife were apparently found dead in their Los Angeles home.

Captain Mike Bland of the Los Angeles Police Department said detectives from the robbery homicide division were investigating an “apparent homicide” at Reiner’s home.

Authorities have not confirmed the identities of the people found dead at the house in the upscale Brentwood neighbourhood on LA’s west side that is home to many celebrities.

“At this time, no further details are available as this is an ongoing RHD investigation, into an apparent homicide,” the statement said.

But entertainment publication Variety said a family spokesperson had confirmed the deaths.

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner,” it reported a statement as saying.

“We are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and we ask for privacy during this unbelievably difficult time.”

Variety said the deaths were being investigated as a homicide.

“The couple was reported to have been stabbed to death,” it said.

Local media reported a large police presence at the home late on Sunday. The Los Angeles Times said it had been told a family member close to the Reiners was being questioned by authorities.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called Reiner’s death a devastating loss for the city.

“Rob Reiner’s contributions reverberate throughout American culture and society, and he has improved countless lives through his creative work and advocacy fighting for social and economic justice,” she said.

“An acclaimed actor, director, producer, writer, and engaged political activist, he always used his gifts in service of others.”

Reiner, 78, was catapulted to fame with his role as Meathead in the 1970s TV classic All in the Family alongside Carol O’Connor’s Archie Bunker. He also directed well-known movies, including This is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, Stand by Me, A Few Good Men and The American President.

His most recent film was Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, the sequel to 1984’s This Is Spinal Tap.

Reiner and his wife, photographer Michele Singer, married in 1989. They met while he was directing When Harry Met Sally: Jake, Nick, and Romy.

Reiner also has a daughter, Tracy, from his first marriage to director Penny Marshall.

-with AAP