The Unexpected Hollywood-Political Power Couple: Who Is RFK Jr.'s Wife, Cheryl Hines?

As of late 2024, the woman standing beside presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Emmy-nominated actress and comedian, Cheryl Hines. Their marriage, which began in 2014, has forged one of the most unexpected and publicly scrutinized unions in American political and entertainment circles, blending the storied legacy of the Kennedy dynasty with the sharp wit of Hollywood comedy. The couple’s relationship has been thrust into the spotlight, particularly as Hines navigated the intense public pressure and media scrutiny surrounding her husband’s high-profile 2024 independent presidential bid. The actress, best known for her role as Cheryl David on HBO's long-running series *Curb Your Enthusiasm*, has been vocal about her support for her husband while often having to publicly distance herself from some of his more controversial political and health-related stances. This dynamic creates a fascinating portrait of a modern political spouse—one who balances personal loyalty with a distinct public identity. The story of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s life is marked by three significant marriages, but it is his current relationship with Cheryl Hines that defines his public and private life today.

The Full Biography and Profile of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Wife, Cheryl Hines

Cheryl Ruth Hines is an accomplished American actress, comedian, and director with a career spanning over three decades. Her marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in 2014 connected her to one of the most famous political families in American history, but her professional success was firmly established long before.

• Full Name: Cheryl Ruth Hines
• Born: September 21, 1965
• Birthplace: Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
• Age (as of late 2024): 59
• Spouse: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (married 2014)
• Children: Catherine Rose Young (from a previous marriage)
• Education: Studied television production at the University of Central Florida.
• Key Career Milestones:
  • Acting Role: Portrayed Cheryl David, the long-suffering wife of Larry David, in the critically acclaimed HBO comedy series *Curb Your Enthusiasm* (2000–2024).
  • Awards: Received two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her work on *Curb Your Enthusiasm*.
  • Directing/Producing: Made her feature film directorial debut with the 2009 comedy *Serious Moonlight*.
  • Recognition: Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
  • Other Roles: Starred in the sitcom *Suburgatory* and the film *Waitress*.

A Hollywood-Meets-Hyannis Port Romance: The RFK Jr. and Cheryl Hines Story

The relationship between the environmental lawyer and the comedic actress blossomed from an unlikely friendship. The couple was introduced by Kennedy's cousin, Larry David's ex-wife, Laurie David.

Hines and Kennedy began dating in 2011. Their relationship developed quickly, finding common ground despite their vastly different professional worlds. Kennedy, a prominent figure in environmental law and a member of the legendary Kennedy family, and Hines, a fixture in the Los Angeles comedy scene, announced their engagement in 2014.

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The wedding took place on August 2, 2014, at the Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. The ceremony was a blend of Hollywood glamor and Kennedy tradition, signaling a new chapter for both of them. Hines became Kennedy’s third wife, and in doing so, stepped into the complex and high-profile world of the Kennedy dynasty. She has since been a visible figure alongside her husband at various political rallies, environmental events, and family gatherings.

Navigating Public Scrutiny: Cheryl Hines and the 2024 Campaign

The couple's marriage faced its greatest test during Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s independent run for the presidency in the 2024 election cycle. Hines, a self-identified Democrat, found herself in a challenging position as her husband's political views and campaign rhetoric—particularly his controversial stances on vaccines and public health—often diverged sharply from mainstream Democratic positions and her own public image.

Hines has repeatedly confirmed her unwavering support for her husband as a person, even while acknowledging their political differences. She has stated that while she supports his right to run and believes in his sincerity, she does not necessarily agree with every position he takes. This nuanced approach has been a key feature of her public commentary, allowing her to maintain her own identity while standing by her spouse.

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The pressure on the marriage was immense. In a candid revelation, Hines admitted that the public scrutiny was so intense that her husband once suggested they stage a "fake separation" to reduce the media’s focus on her, a suggestion she ultimately rejected.

Furthermore, the history of violence associated with the Kennedy family, including the assassinations of his father, Robert F. Kennedy, and his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, cast a long shadow over the campaign. Hines confessed that she lived in "constant fear" for her husband's safety, a sentiment that underscores the unique and profound challenges of being married to a high-profile political figure in the modern era.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Previous Marriages

Before his marriage to Cheryl Hines, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was married twice. Both previous marriages are significant parts of his personal history and the larger narrative of the Kennedy family.

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First Marriage: Emily Ruth Black (1982–1994)

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. married Emily Ruth Black in 1982. They met while attending the University of Virginia School of Law. The couple had two children together: Robert F. Kennedy III and Kick Kennedy (Kathleen Alexandra Kennedy). The marriage lasted for twelve years, ending in divorce in 1994.

Second Marriage: Mary Richardson Kennedy (1994–2012)

Kennedy's second marriage was to Mary Richardson, an architect and designer. They were married in 1994, shortly after his divorce from Black was finalized. Mary Richardson and RFK Jr. had four children together: Conor, Kyra, William, and Aidan.

This marriage was marked by tragedy. Kennedy filed for divorce in 2010, and the proceedings were ongoing when Mary Richardson Kennedy passed away in May 2012. Her death was a devastating event for the family and brought intense media attention to the Kennedy compound and the family’s private struggles.

The current Mrs. Kennedy, Cheryl Hines, is an unexpected but resilient partner for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Her ability to navigate the worlds of Hollywood and the highly charged political landscape, all while maintaining her own voice and career, defines her role as the modern spouse of a complex public figure.