Comedian Reveals RFK Jr.’s Influence in Friendship Fallout with Cheryl Hines

Tig Notaro recently discussed the fallout from her friendship with actress Cheryl Hines, primarily attributing it to Hines’ marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who now serves as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. Notaro, known for her candid style, opened up about the key factors influencing her decision during an episode of the “Breaking Bread With Tom Papa” podcast.
Notaro’s Reflections on Friendship
Notaro recalled her previous close relationship with Hines, noting that their friendship had a whimsical dynamic. They co-hosted a podcast titled “Tig & Cheryl: True Story,” where they explored various documentaries in a light-hearted manner. Their fun interactions often involved playful discussions that strayed from conventional reviews, appealing to their audience’s desire for humor.
Shift in Views Due to Political Climate
The comedian emphasized that the tipping point in their friendship was tied to Kennedy’s political stance and subsequent actions. Notaro described that while her friendship with Hines predated her marriage to Kennedy, the growing visibility of his controversial beliefs started creating discomfort. “When he was announcing his run, I just felt like I needed to step away,” Notaro shared.
- Notaro expressed concerns over Kennedy’s beliefs becoming more pronounced.
- She highlighted her apprehensions about discussing his ideas, which diverged significantly from her own views.
- Kennedy’s endorsement of Donald Trump made the situation untenable for Notaro.
Hines’ Response to Kennedy’s Political Views
Cheryl Hines has publicly navigated the complexities of her husband’s political affiliations. Following Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump, he acknowledged that it caused tension in their marriage. Hines, a lifelong Democrat, reportedly found it challenging to support Kennedy’s political engagement.
Consequences of Divergent Beliefs
Notaro articulated how differences in political belief can strain personal relationships, saying, “It’s not my world. It’s a hard pass.” This reflects her decision to prioritize her values over maintaining the friendship with Hines.
While Hines appears to embrace more conservative principles, her recent interviews suggest she is aligning with Kennedy’s political circle, even expressing admiration for Republican women in Washington. Notaro’s commentary sheds light on how personal affiliations and political beliefs intersect, often leading to profound changes in friendships.
The evolving narrative around Tig Notaro, Cheryl Hines, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. illustrates the broader societal impact of politics on personal connections, prompting reflections on loyalty and shared values in friendships.