Cheryl Hines: From Hollywood to Political Spouse
Cheryl Hines, widely recognized for her comedic role alongside Larry David in HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” is now navigating the complexities of life as the wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services. In her upcoming memoir, “Unscripted,” Hines shares her unexpected transition from the glitzy world of Hollywood to the often tumultuous realm of Washington politics.
A New Chapter in Washington
Earlier this year, Hines relocated to Washington, D.C., following her husband’s appointment to President Trump’s Cabinet. The couple, who married in 2014, were introduced by David, Hines’ longtime co-star. While Hines has embraced her new role, she admits that the transition has not been without its challenges. “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to being a political spouse. A Cabinet spouse,” she remarked in an interview with CBS News’ Natalie Morales.
As Kennedy launched his presidential campaign in April 2023, Hines found herself grappling with anxiety over his safety. Notably, Kennedy did not receive Secret Service protection, a decision that has raised eyebrows given the Kennedy family‘s tragic history with political violence. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s father was assassinated in 1968 during his own presidential campaign, just five years after his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, was killed in Dallas.
The Vaccine Debate: A Personal Divide
As Kennedy has emerged as a vocal critic of COVID-19 vaccines, Hines has found herself in a unique position. While she supports her husband’s political ambitions, she also acknowledges the emotional toll that their differing views on vaccines can take on their relationship. “I’m definitely the one that has all the feelings, and he’s the one that wants to talk about the facts and the studies,” she explained. Despite their disagreements, Hines emphasized that they maintain open lines of communication. “We always come back around to, ‘I hear what you’re saying,'” she added.
When pressed about her own stance on vaccines, Hines refrained from taking a definitive position. Instead, she expressed empathy for both sides of the debate. “I understand how people feel like, ‘We have to do it. Do not question it,'” she said, while also acknowledging the concerns of parents who believe their children were adversely affected by vaccinations. This nuanced perspective highlights the complexity of the vaccine discourse, which has become increasingly polarized in recent years.
Family Dynamics and Public Scrutiny
The political landscape has not only affected Hines and Kennedy but has also strained relationships within the Kennedy family. Hines revealed that some of Kennedy’s relatives, including his cousin Caroline Kennedy, have publicly criticized his views on vaccines, labeling them “dangerous” and “disqualifying.” “It was hard. I found it to be hard,” Hines reflected on the family rift, noting that she had always admired the Kennedy family’s commitment to unity.
Hines also shared a poignant moment involving Kennedy’s mother, Ethel Kennedy. When Robert informed her of his presidential run, she expressed pride but was taken aback to learn that some of her children were opposing him. This family division underscores the challenges that come with political ambition, particularly within a family with such a storied legacy.
Humor as a Coping Mechanism
In the face of these challenges, Hines has turned to humor as a coping strategy. “I’ll just act like I know what I’m doing until someone says, ‘Don’t curtsy. A curtsy is not needed in this moment,'” she joked, highlighting the absurdity of her new role. However, the political arena has also impacted her friendships in Hollywood. “I have a few friends, when Bobby stepped into the political arena, it became too difficult emotionally for them to stay close,” she admitted.
Despite the challenges, Hines is forging new connections in Washington, including friendships with other Cabinet spouses. She recounted a moment when Kennedy suggested they stage a separation to shield her from public criticism. “I didn’t understand how that was gonna help, but I appreciated what he was talking about,” she said, reflecting on the complexities of their relationship.
The Climate of Political Violence
Hines and Kennedy recently attended a memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated. This event has heightened Hines’ concerns about the current political climate. “The dangerous political climate frightens me most,” she stated, emphasizing the need for a more civil discourse.
When asked how to lower the political temperature, Hines advocated for empathy and understanding. “I think everyone needs to take a step back, listen to each other, and find that place where it is OK to disagree,” she said. This philosophy not only applies to her marriage but also to the broader societal context, where polarization has become increasingly prevalent.
Conclusion
Cheryl Hines’ journey from Hollywood to the political arena is a testament to the complexities of modern life, particularly for those in the public eye. As she navigates her new role as a political spouse, Hines remains committed to her family and her husband’s ambitions, all while advocating for understanding and empathy in a divided world. Her memoir, “Unscripted,” set to be released on November 11, promises to offer further insights into her life and the challenges she faces as she balances her personal and public identities.
