How Rob Reiner’s Real-Life Romance Changed a Classic Rom-Com

Rob Reiner once had a very different idea for the ending of his much-loved romantic comedy, When Harry Met Sally. Instead of the uplifting finale that’s become a staple for rom-com fans, Reiner originally pictured a more downbeat conclusion, not unlike the ending of La La Land. At first, he thought Harry and Sally would simply cross paths after years apart, have a chat, and then head off in separate directions. As he put it,

It was going to be the two of them seeing each other after years, talking and then walking away from each other

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That plan, though, didn’t stick. Before he could lock in the ending, Reiner’s own life took a turn. He met Michelle Singer while working on the film, and their budding relationship inspired him to rethink everything. The story, which had started out reflecting his own doubts about romance after a tough divorce, suddenly had a new spark. The film’s direction shifted, and Harry and Sally ended up together after all.

Love Behind the Scenes

Reiner’s personal journey played a big part in shaping the film’s final moments. Meeting Singer on set changed his outlook, and that real-life romance bled into the script. The film, which had grown out of Reiner’s uncertainty about finding love again, became a story of hope and connection. He explained,

I had been married for 10 years. I’d been single for 10 years, and I couldn’t figure out how I was ever going to be with anybody, and that gave birth to When Harry Met Sally. I met my wife Michele, who I’ve been married to now 35 years. I met her while we were making the film, and I changed the ending,

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It’s a bit of a heartbreaker that Reiner and Singer, who seemed to have one of the more solid partnerships in Hollywood, eventually faced a tragic ending. Still, their story left a mark on the film and on audiences everywhere.

Why the Happy Ending Worked

While La La Land’s bittersweet finish suited its themes of ambition and missed chances, the same approach wouldn’t have fit Reiner’s rom-com. When Harry Met Sally is all about the ups and downs of relationships, compromise, and the ways people connect. A sad ending would have missed the point entirely.

Keeping the more optimistic conclusion meant punters got one of the most memorable love speeches in film. Harry’s words at the end aren’t flashy or over the top—they feel genuine, likely because they were inspired by Reiner’s own feelings for Singer. That personal touch is part of what’s made the film a favourite for so many.

Lasting Impact on the Genre

The film set a new standard for romantic comedies, and decades later, it’s still the go-to comfort watch for heaps of people. If Reiner had stuck with his original plan, the film would have lost its feel-good charm. The ending, shaped by real-life love, helped make it the classic it is today.

What do you reckon about the way it all wrapped up?

When Harry Met Sally is available to rent on Apple TV in the US.