Cheryl Hines, the actress known for her role in "Curb Your Enthusiasm," recently opened up about navigating the challenges in her marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., following reports of his involvement with journalist Olivia Nuzzi. In her first public interview since the scandal emerged, Hines shared how she copes with the tumultuous moments in their relationship and revealed plans to write a tell-all book about her experiences.
Speaking with US Weekly at The Groundlings' 50th anniversary event, Hines described the importance of connection during difficult times. "There's, like, a connection that you look at your husband or your partner and all the crazy going on around you, or you look and you check in and it's like, 'OK. It's going to be OK. We're going to move through this moment,'" she said. Hines added that humor often plays a role in helping her get through the "crazy" times. "A lot of times it's funny, and you can lean over and say, 'This is crazy balls,' and have a moment together and then hold your head up high and go to the next thing."
Hines has remained largely positive despite the public scrutiny surrounding her marriage. She noted that embracing the unknown and keeping a light-hearted attitude has helped her maintain balance. "Just to let it flow and to find the little moments and not take anything too seriously. Even though I find myself in very serious situations!" she said, adding that she is still "having a lot of fun" with her family.
The comments come after reports suggested that RFK Jr. had engaged in a digital affair with Nuzzi, who previously profiled him for New York magazine. Rumors alleged that the pair exchanged explicit messages, including "demure nudes." Kennedy has denied these claims, insisting that he and Nuzzi only met once during an interview. Hines, meanwhile, has opted not to directly address the allegations, instead choosing to focus on her own well-being and her family.
Hines also discussed the upcoming presidential election and how the campaign has affected their lives. She acknowledged feeling relieved that the end of the election season is near. "The end is near," she said, adding that she felt "very peaceful" about it. Hines humorously mentioned that she checks the countdown to the election daily: "Every day, I Google it. You think I could remember from the day before. Every day, the countdown."
The actress has been married to RFK Jr. since 2014, and their relationship has faced increased public scrutiny due to his growing political profile and support for former President Donald Trump after dropping out of the presidential race himself. Hines admitted that when she first met Kennedy, she was excited by his disinterest in politics. "I was like, 'Great. This is going to be great!' And then life gives you a left turn, a right turn, however, it turns out to be," she said. Despite the challenges, Hines expressed that she remains open to discussing differing views with others, especially in Hollywood, where political opinions often run deep.
Hines also announced that she is working on a book that will chronicle her journey through these tumultuous times. "Lots of emotions with rumors! But, it will all be in my book," she said, hinting that the tell-all would delve into her experiences dealing with the scandal and her husband's political endeavors. "I've been taking notes-serious notes!" Hines remarked, suggesting that the book will provide an honest account of her life with RFK Jr.
Hines and Kennedy have been seen together in public since the scandal broke, including attending the Al Smith Dinner in New York City. The couple was spotted wearing their wedding rings, indicating that they are still committed to their marriage. Despite the challenges, Hines remains resolute in her support of her husband and her efforts to keep their family strong.
Meanwhile, Olivia Nuzzi has taken a leave of absence from New York magazine and is embroiled in her own personal turmoil. Reports indicate that she is in a legal battle with her ex-fiancé, Politico journalist Ryan Lizza. Both Nuzzi and Lizza have made accusations against each other, with Nuzzi filing a no-contact order against Lizza, who is also currently on leave.
