Actor Cheryl Hines, widely recognized for her role in HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” is now in a new spotlight. She’s navigating life as the wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services. In her memoir, “Unscripted,” Hines shares her unexpected transition from Hollywood to the political world.
Hines moved to Washington, D.C. earlier this year after Kennedy joined President Trump’s Cabinet. Their marriage in 2014 was facilitated by her former co-star, Larry David. This change has been significant for Hines, especially as she supports her husband’s presidential campaign in 2023, which has brought anxieties, particularly regarding his safety. Notably, Kennedy did not receive Secret Service protection after declaring his candidacy.
Hines often reflects on the Kennedy family’s history, marked by tragedies, including the assassination of Kennedy’s father and uncle during their presidential campaigns. These events weigh heavily on her mind as she worries for her husband’s safety.
As Kennedy has taken a strong stance against COVID-19 vaccines, their discussions sometimes become heated. Hines admits they have different perspectives, but they make an effort to understand each other. “I hear what you’re saying,” she states, expressing the importance of listening. While she remains neutral on the vaccine debate, she acknowledges concerns from parents who have had negative experiences.
Family dynamics have shifted, too. Some relatives, including Kennedy’s cousin Caroline, have expressed strong disagreements with his views. Hines found these public disagreements hard to navigate, particularly with a family known for valuing closeness.
To cope with the demands of political life, Hines uses humor. She jokes about faking confidence, illustrating the blend of her comedic background and her new role. Interestingly, her entry into politics has strained some friendships but has also led to new connections with other Cabinet spouses.
In the face of rising political tensions, Hines emphasizes the need for mutual understanding. She believes that listening to differing viewpoints can help lower the temperature in political discussions.
Hines and Kennedy attended a memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk after his assassination, which deeply impacted her view on the current political climate. Her message to others is to engage in conversations with an open mind, recognizing that disagreements don’t have to lead to hostility.
Their blended family, including Hines’s daughter and Kennedy’s six children, remains a source of support amidst the public scrutiny they face. Even Kennedy’s mother, Ethel, was surprised at the family divisions following his presidential announcement.
Cheryl Hines’s journey from actress to political spouse is a testament to the complexities of modern life in the public eye, demonstrating how love and understanding can bridge differences in a divided society.
For more insights into maintaining relationships amid political differences, check out this report from the Pew Research Center.
