Cheryl Hines is the current wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a role that has placed her at the intersection of Hollywood glamour and the highest echelons of American political power. While many recognize her as the sharp-witted, long-suffering wife of Larry David on the HBO hit series Curb Your Enthusiasm, her real-life marriage to Kennedy has proven to be far more complex than any television script. Since Kennedy’s confirmation as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) in early 2025, Hines has transitioned into a new chapter as a prominent political spouse in Washington, D.C., navigating the unique challenges of the Kennedy legacy and the modern political landscape.

The Professional Trajectory of Cheryl Hines

Long before becoming a member of the Kennedy family, Cheryl Hines established herself as a formidable talent in the entertainment industry. Born in Miami Beach and raised in Tallahassee, Florida, her path to stardom was defined by perseverance rather than immediate success. After graduating from the University of Central Florida, Hines worked a variety of odd jobs, including waiting tables and working as a telephone operator, while pursuing her dreams in Los Angeles.

Her big break came through the legendary improv troupe, The Groundlings. It was here that she honed the improvisational skills that would eventually make her an essential part of Curb Your Enthusiasm. When Larry David was casting for the role of his fictional wife, he sought an actress who was unknown and capable of handling his specific brand of spontaneous comedy. Hines fit the bill perfectly, earning two Primetime Emmy nominations during her tenure on the show. Beyond her iconic role as Cheryl David, she has directed films like Serious Moonlight and starred in television series such as Suburgatory, solidifying her reputation as a versatile artist.

A Fated Introduction by Larry David

The connection between Cheryl Hines and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is one of those rare instances where television fiction influenced reality. Larry David, Hines's on-screen husband, was the person who introduced the pair in real life. The first meeting occurred in 2006 during a fundraiser for the Waterkeeper Alliance, an environmental organization founded by Kennedy. Despite the initial introduction on the ski slopes of Banff, Canada, a romantic relationship did not materialize immediately. At the time, both were married to other people—Hines to producer Paul Young and Kennedy to his second wife, Mary Richardson.

It wasn't until 2011, after both had separated from their respective spouses, that they reconnected and began dating. Their relationship was made public in 2012 at the Riverkeeper’s Fishermen’s Ball. Kennedy reportedly sought David’s blessing before things became serious, to which David famously joked that the pairing was a "terrible idea" before ultimately supporting them. The couple announced their engagement in April 2014 and were married later that year in August.

The 2014 Wedding at the Kennedy Compound

The marriage of Cheryl Hines and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was a high-profile event that brought Hollywood to the historic Kennedy family compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. The ceremony took place under a large white tent, attended by nearly 300 guests, including members of the sprawling Kennedy clan and stars like Julia Louis-Dreyfus and, of course, Larry David.

This marriage marked a significant blending of two distinct worlds. For Hines, it meant entering a family dynasty synonymous with American history, triumphs, and tragedies. For Kennedy, it brought a partner who possessed the public charisma and resilience needed to withstand the scrutiny that follows the Kennedy name. Despite the pressures, the couple often spoke about their shared values regarding family and hard work, emphasizing a grounded connection that transcended their public personas.

Life as a Political Spouse in 2025

The year 2025 marked a pivotal shift in the couple's lives. Following Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment and subsequent Senate confirmation as the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Hines has had to recalibrate her life. The move from their longtime residence in Brentwood, California, to a historic row house in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., symbolized this transition.

Being the spouse of a cabinet member involves more than just attending hearings and social functions. Hines has had to make professional sacrifices to avoid potential conflicts of interest. In early 2025, she shuttered her eco-friendly cosmetics brand, Hines + Young, which she had launched with her daughter. This decision reflected the stringent ethical requirements of her husband's high-level government role.

In Washington, Hines has been observed attending her husband’s Senate Finance Committee hearings, often seated directly behind him. Observers have noted her poised but serious demeanor during these sessions, a stark contrast to her comedic television roles. She has also released a memoir, Unscripted, which provides an intimate look at her experiences during the 2024 campaign and her subsequent adjustment to life in the nation's capital.

Navigating Political and Personal Controversies

The marriage between Hines and Kennedy has not been without its public trials. Kennedy’s outspoken views on various issues, particularly his skepticism regarding certain public health policies and his controversial comparisons during the pandemic, have at times put Hines in a difficult position. On several occasions, Hines has felt compelled to issue public statements clarifying that her husband's opinions do not always reflect her own. In 2022, she publicly denounced a comparison he made between vaccination mandates and the Holocaust, calling the sentiment "reprehensible."

Furthermore, in late 2024, the couple faced intense media scrutiny following reports of an alleged relationship between Kennedy and a political journalist. While Kennedy denied the allegations, the situation tested the strength of their marriage under the relentless spotlight of the 2024 election cycle. Hines’s decision to remain a visible and supportive presence during the 2025 confirmation hearings was seen by many political analysts as a testament to their commitment and her ability to navigate the "crazy balls" nature of political life, a term she has used to describe their reality.

The Blended Kennedy-Hines Family

One of the most defining aspects of Cheryl Hines's life with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is their large, blended family. Between them, they have seven children.

  • Hines’s Daughter: From her first marriage to Paul Young, Cheryl has one daughter, Catherine Rose Young, born in 2004. Catherine has often been seen accompanying her mother to events and was a co-founder of their former beauty line.
  • Kennedy’s Children: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has six children from his previous two marriages. From his first marriage to Emily Ruth Black, he has Robert Francis "Bobby" III and Kathleen Alexandra "Kick" Kennedy. From his second marriage to Mary Kathleen Richardson, he has Conor, Kyra, William Finbar "Finn," and Aidan Kennedy.

Hines has often spoken about the joy and complexity of managing such a large group. She has credited their shared focus on the children as a primary reason for their relationship's success. Even during the most turbulent political moments, the family has maintained a tradition of gathering at the Hyannis Port compound, preserving the sense of normalcy that the Kennedy family has sought for generations.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Previous Marriages

To fully understand the context of Hines's role, it is necessary to acknowledge Kennedy's prior marital history.

Emily Ruth Black (1982–1994)

Kennedy met his first wife, Emily Ruth Black, while they were both students at the University of Virginia School of Law. They married in 1982 and had two children together. The marriage ended in divorce in 1994, though they remained connected through their children and shared legal background.

Mary Kathleen Richardson (1994–2012)

His second marriage to Mary Kathleen Richardson was marked by both deep connection and profound tragedy. They married shortly after his divorce from Black was finalized and had four children. The couple separated in 2010. Tragically, Mary Richardson died by suicide in May 2012 at her home in Bedford, New York, before the divorce proceedings were completed. The loss was a significant moment of grief for the entire Kennedy family and continues to be a part of the family's narrative of resilience and sorrow.

The Modern Role of the Cabinet Spouse

As the wife of the HHS Secretary, Cheryl Hines represents a new kind of political spouse—one with an established, independent career in the arts who must find her footing in a town governed by protocol and policy. Her presence in Washington is unique because she does not fit the traditional mold of a political wife who remains exclusively in the background.

She continues to balance her identity as an actress with her duties in the capital. While she has had to step back from some commercial ventures, her influence remains significant. She has used her platform to support causes such as United Cerebral Palsy, an organization she has been involved with for years due to her nephew’s diagnosis. This philanthropic work aligns with the broader public service goals of the Kennedy family, even as she maintains her distinct Hollywood voice.

The Enduring Partnership

Despite the headlines, the scandals, and the radical shifts in their professional lives, the partnership between Cheryl Hines and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appears to be built on a foundation of mutual support and a shared sense of humor. Hines has noted in interviews that their ability to look at the "crazy" surrounding them and laugh together is what keeps them anchored.

As the Secretary of Health and Human Services works on the "Make America Healthy Again" initiative, Hines remains his most visible confidante. Whether she is appearing in viral social media videos that humanize the high-ranking official or standing by him in the halls of the Senate, her role is integral to his public image.

Summary of the Kennedy-Hines Relationship

Cheryl Hines has successfully navigated the transition from being a beloved television actress to a central figure in one of America's most famous and scrutinized families. Her marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has survived the pressures of a presidential campaign, the transition into a cabinet role, and the constant glare of the public eye. As of 2025, they remain a prominent power couple in Washington, D.C., representing a blend of entertainment culture and political legacy.

FAQ

Who is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s current wife? The current wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is actress and director Cheryl Hines. They have been married since August 2014.

What is Cheryl Hines famous for? Cheryl Hines is most famous for her role as Cheryl David on the HBO comedy series Curb Your Enthusiasm. She is also an Emmy-nominated actress and has starred in films like RV and A Bad Moms Christmas.

Does Cheryl Hines have children with RFK Jr.? Cheryl Hines and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. do not have any children together. However, they share a blended family of seven children from their previous marriages.

Where does Cheryl Hines live now? As of 2025, following her husband's appointment as HHS Secretary, the couple has relocated from Los Angeles to a row house in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

What happened to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s second wife? Kennedy’s second wife, Mary Kathleen Richardson, died by suicide in May 2012 at her home in New York. The couple had been separated since 2010.

Is Cheryl Hines still acting while her husband is in the cabinet? Yes, Hines continues to pursue her acting career, though she has made adjustments to her business ventures, such as closing her beauty line, to avoid ethical conflicts related to her husband’s role in the Department of Health and Human Services.