Tig Notaro Reveals Friendship Rift Over RFK Jr.’s Political Shift

Comedian Tig Notaro Discusses Friendship Fallout Over Cheryl Hines’ Husband’s Politics

Acclaimed comedian Tig Notaro has candidly revealed a significant rift in her friendship with actress and podcast partner Cheryl Hines, attributing the strain to Hines’ husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s, increasingly controversial political stances. The fallout, described by Notaro as “very strange,” highlights the personal costs of political polarization, even among close friends.

A Friendship Tested by Politics

Speaking on Nicolle Wallace’s program “The Best People,” Notaro, known for her unique comedic style and recent Oscar nomination for producing the documentary “All of Us All of Us,” detailed the unexpected consequences of RFK Jr.’s political trajectory. Hines and Notaro shared a close bond, co-hosting the podcast “Tig and Cheryl: Strictly Business.” However, the comedian explained that Kennedy Jr.’s embrace of what Notaro perceives as MAGA-aligned politics created an untenable situation for their friendship.

“It’s just this very strange thing that happened. I have a very, very dear friend, Cheryl Hines, who I love very much. And we’ve been friends for a long time. And she’s married to Bobby Kennedy. And I was like, ‘Oh, that’s great.’ I mean, you know, I didn’t know him. I met him maybe once or twice. And then, you know, he started to get into politics, and he started to get into the MAGA thing, and then it all just became too much for me,” Notaro stated.

Notaro elaborated that the friendship became strained to the point where continuing their podcast together was no longer feasible. The decision to step away from their professional collaboration was a difficult one, stemming from a fundamental disagreement over the political direction RFK Jr. had taken, which Notaro found deeply problematic.

The Impact of Political Divides

The comedian’s remarks underscore the profound impact political divides can have on personal relationships. In an era of intense political polarization, individuals are increasingly finding their friendships and family ties tested by differing viewpoints. Notaro’s experience with Hines serves as a poignant example of how deeply held political beliefs can create chasms between even long-standing friends.

Notaro, who has been open about her own progressive political leanings, found it difficult to reconcile her values with the political movement her friend’s husband had become associated with. The comedian emphasized that the decision to distance herself was not made lightly, but was a necessary step for her own peace of mind and integrity.

Beyond Politics: Notaro’s Other Endeavors

While the conversation touched upon the personal cost of political alignment, Notaro also discussed other significant aspects of her career. She spoke about the healing power of comedy and her involvement in the deeply personal documentary, “All of Us All of Us.” The film chronicles the life and death of her close friend, the late poet and activist Andrea Gibson, who passed away in July 2025 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Notaro’s role as a producer on the film highlighted her commitment to honoring her friends and exploring profound human experiences through her work.

The comedian also touched upon the boundaries of comedy, suggesting that while she believes in pushing creative limits, there are very few topics that are entirely off-limits. This perspective likely informs her willingness to engage with difficult subjects, both in her stand-up and in her producing work.

What’s Next for Notaro and Hines?

The future of Notaro and Hines’ friendship remains uncertain, though Notaro’s candidness suggests a willingness to acknowledge the difficulties. The end of their podcast collaboration marks a significant shift in their relationship. As political landscapes continue to evolve, the personal consequences of these shifts will likely continue to be a topic of discussion and personal reckoning for many.

Fans of both Notaro and Hines will be watching to see if any reconciliation is possible, or if this political divide proves to be a permanent fracture in their once-close bond. Notaro’s openness about this personal struggle offers a glimpse into the complex emotional terrain navigated by individuals caught in the crosscurrents of contemporary politics.

Source: 'Very Strange': Star Comedian OPENS UP on losing friend Cheryl Hines over RFK Jr.’s MAGA turn (YouTube)