Keanu Reeves has faced backlash after writing a supportive letter for director Carl Rinsch, who was convicted of defrauding Netflix out of $11 million. The 61-year-old actor, who worked with Rinsch on the 2013 film 47 Ronin, submitted the letter on May 1, which was made public ahead of Rinsch's sentencing scheduled for June 29.
Details of the Case
In December, Rinsch was found guilty of wire fraud and money laundering for using Netflix funds on personal luxuries, including luxury cars, watches, and mattresses. Prosecutors revealed he spent at least $1.7 million on credit card bills, $3.3 million on furniture and antiques, $387,000 on a Swiss watch, and $2.4 million on five Rolls-Royces and a Ferrari.
Reeves' Letter
In his letter, Reeves wrote: "I do not know the details of this case. But based upon what I do know about Carl, I did want to take the opportunity to write on his behalf, in the hope that this sentence might be tempered with measures of leniency and mercy, as well as justice." He described Rinsch as an "exceptional artist" and noted that he can "self-sabotage by amplifying the scale, scope and landscape of what had been negotiated."
Public Reaction
The letter sparked criticism on social media, with one user asking, "Why is he asking for leniency for a crook?" Another commented, "Why should this swindler be shown any leniency for ripping off millions of dollars?"
Background
Rinsch was convicted for his role in a fraudulent scheme involving Netflix funds meant to complete his sci-fi series White Horse (later renamed Conquest). He received $11 million in 2020 but instead spent it on personal expenses and speculative investments, losing over half within two months. Netflix canceled the project in 2021, recording a loss of over $55 million. Rinsch is scheduled for sentencing on April 17, 2026, and faces up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud and money laundering, plus up to 10 years for each of five counts of engaging in monetary transactions with criminally derived property.
