Mel Brooks Carl Reiner Documentary 2026: The Untold Story of Their Final Night

Mel Brooks wasn't just a friend; he was there until the final heartbeat. In a raw and emotional reveal, the comedy legend shares for the first time that he was at Carl Reiner's side during his last moments in 2020.

Mel Brooks Carl Reiner Documentary 2026: A Final Goodbye

The upcoming HBO documentary, 'Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!', set to premiere on January 22, offers a poignant look at one of Hollywood's most enduring friendships. Brooks recounts the harrowing night when Reiner collapsed at his Beverly Hills home. Despite his own age, Brooks stayed by his side, even yelling at EMTs to keep trying as he refused to accept the loss of his partner of seven decades.

Legacy of the '2000 Year Old Man'

The duo's creative spark ignited in 1950 on 'Your Show of Shows.' They became a cultural phenomenon with the '2000 Year Old Man' sketch, eventually winning a Grammy in 1998. Their bond deepened in their later years; after both lost their wives, they spent nearly every evening together, watching television and sharing dinner.

The documentary also features an interview with the late Rob Reiner, who passed away in December 2025. Rob noted that even though Mel was only four years younger than Carl, he looked to him as a father figure, staying close to the house for months even after Carl was gone.