As fans revisit Reiner’s extensive body of work to honor his memory, they are reminded of his unique talent for blending sincerity with humor, particularly evident in films like the 1989 romantic gem “When Harry Met Sally.” Interestingly, this beloved movie might have carried a different emotional tone had Reiner not altered its originally somber ending.

During a 2024 conversation with CNN Entertainment, Reiner reflected on the film’s initial conclusion, which was far less uplifting than the final version that audiences cherish. He explained that the more somber ending was inspired by his own life experiences.

“The initial ending had Harry and Sally going their separate ways,” Reiner revealed. “It showed them meeting after years, having a conversation, and then parting. This idea stemmed from my personal journey—after a decade of marriage and another decade of being single, I struggled to envision ever finding a lasting relationship, and that struggle led to ‘When Harry Met Sally.'”

“The original ending of the film that we had was that Harry and Sally didn’t get together,” the director said. “It was going to be the two of them seeing each other after years, talking and then walking away from each other. Because 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.’”