Cheryl Hines Considers Divorce Amid RFK Jr.'s Alleged Infidelity
A political scandal threatens to unravel a high-profile marriage as rumors of infidelity cast a shadow over a presidential hopeful's campaign.
According to PEOPLE, Cheryl Hines, the wife of former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is considering filing for divorce following allegations of her husband's "personal relationship" with journalist Olivia Nuzzi.
The exclusive report suggests that Kennedy is desperately trying to salvage his marriage amid the controversy. An inside source close to Hines revealed to PEOPLE that the actress is "very angry" about the alleged affair, which has been described as "embarrassing" for her.
Trust Issues Strain Hines And Kennedy's Marriage
The 59-year-old "Curb Your Enthusiasm" star has reportedly been discussing the possibility of divorce with her support network, who are said to be firmly on her side during this challenging time.
The source provided insight into the couple's current dynamic, stating that Kennedy is making efforts to dissuade Hines from taking legal action. However, the insider questioned the sustainability of their relationship, given the repeated breaches of trust.
The source tells PEOPLE:
She's been talking about filing for divorce, but he's begging her not to file. But how many times can you forgive a partner that's dishonest and goes behind your back? It's just ridiculous behavior from a grown, married man.
Tensions Rise As Couple Makes Public Appearance
Despite the turmoil in their personal lives, Hines and Kennedy were recently spotted together in Malibu, California. On October 5, the couple was photographed in a car, with Kennedy driving and Hines in the passenger seat. According to Page Six, they were seen making a stop at a local Starbucks.
While this public outing might suggest an attempt at reconciliation, another source informed PEOPLE that the atmosphere between the two remains tense. Notably, Hines was observed without her wedding ring during this appearance, fueling further speculation about the state of their marriage.
The couple has reportedly spent time together in Los Angeles recently, but the underlying strain in their relationship is apparent. The absence of Hines' wedding ring is a particularly telling detail, potentially signaling her emotional state and the seriousness of the marital issues they are facing.
The Scandal That Shook Their Marriage
The controversy that has put the Kennedy-Hines marriage in jeopardy came to light when New York magazine released a statement on September 19, 2024.
The publication announced that Olivia Nuzzi, a 31-year-old journalist, had been placed on leave after acknowledging a "personal relationship" with a former subject relevant to the 2024 presidential campaign.
Nuzzi later clarified in a statement to PEOPLE that while the relationship was never physical, she regretted not disclosing it immediately to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest. She expressed remorse for disappointing her colleagues and others affected by the situation.
Kennedy's representatives have attempted to downplay the alleged relationship, stating that the former presidential candidate had only met Nuzzi once for an interview that resulted in what they described as a "hit piece" published in November 2023.
Hines' Response And Public Reaction
Throughout this ordeal, Cheryl Hines has maintained public silence regarding her husband's alleged extramarital relationship. However, her actions speak volumes, particularly her decision to appear without her wedding ring during the recent Malibu outing with Kennedy.
The entertainment industry and political circles are closely watching how this situation unfolds, given both Hines' status as a popular actress and Kennedy's political aspirations. The scandal has inevitably cast a shadow over Kennedy's recent presidential campaign, adding a personal dimension to his public image.
Public sympathy appears to be largely on Hines' side, with many expressing support for her during this difficult time. The actress's friends and colleagues are reportedly rallying around her, providing a network of support as she navigates this personal crisis in the public eye.
Why This Story Matters
This incident isn't just gossip; it highlights significant issues about personal integrity, the blurred lines between public and private lives, and the cultural consequences of personal misconduct. For the community, it serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between personal actions and public perceptions.
Conclusion
Cheryl Hines is reportedly considering filing for divorce from Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following allegations of his "personal relationship" with journalist Olivia Nuzzi. The couple has been seen together in public, but tensions remain high, with Hines notably not wearing her wedding ring. The scandal has put their marriage under intense scrutiny, with Kennedy allegedly pleading with Hines not to file for divorce as they navigate this challenging period in their relationship.