The Controversy Surrounding Olivia Nuzzi's Return to Media

Olivia Nuzzi, a former political correspondent for New York Magazine, became embroiled in controversy following rumors of a long-distance sexual relationship with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. This affair, which was allegedly never consummated, led to her suspension and eventual firing from New York Magazine due to ethical breaches. Nuzzi accused her then-fiancé, Ryan Lizza, of threats and hacking her devices, claims he denied. She later withdrew her protective order against him and largely disappeared from the media landscape for nearly a year.

Unherd

Nuzzi resurfaced as the West Coast Editor at Vanity Fair and announced the release of her memoir, *American Canto*, on December 2, 2025. The book's launch was preceded by a sensational excerpt in Vanity Fair, which was quickly overshadowed by a multi-part series on Lizza's Substack detailing Nuzzi's alleged misdeeds. This included accusations of another affair with a governor known for his infidelities. The public reaction has largely focused on Nuzzi, with little attention given to the roles of the men involved in the saga.

Unherd

The critical response to *American Canto* has been overwhelmingly negative, with many critics basing their reviews on the Vanity Fair excerpt rather than the full text. This has led to a perception that the criticism reflects a book Nuzzi did not intend to write. Critics argue that the outrage surrounding her work stems from a deep-seated animosity towards her, overshadowing any potential insights her writing might offer. Despite this, some reviewers note that Nuzzi's writing retains the skillful prose that initially garnered her acclaim in political journalism.

Unherd

Nuzzi has distanced herself from the notion that *American Canto* is a tell-all memoir, stating, “When your privacy is violated, there emerges the expectation that you must respond by further violating it.” She emphasizes that the book is not merely a recounting of her personal life but rather a broader commentary on America and the impact of Donald Trump. However, critics argue that the marketing of the book suggests otherwise, leading to a disconnect between Nuzzi's intentions and public perception.

Unherd

The backlash against Nuzzi has been intense, with many viewing her actions as reckless and self-sabotaging. Critics assert that her behavior exemplifies a broader narrative of women being vilified for their sexual choices, while the male figures in her story receive comparatively little scrutiny. This dynamic raises questions about societal perceptions of female agency and accountability in the context of personal relationships.

Unherd

There is a notable discrepancy in the public's understanding of the events surrounding Nuzzi's scandal. While many focus on her alleged misdeeds, the roles of RFK, Jr. and Ryan Lizza remain less examined. Additionally, the lack of a response from Kennedy himself leaves a gap in the narrative, as his perspective could provide crucial context to the unfolding drama.

Unherd

• “I could tell you the facts. I could tell you the truth. I could tell you that where facts end, truth begins. I could tell you, probably, nothing that you would like. I could tell you, almost certainly, nothing that would redeem me.” — Olivia Nuzzi, Author

Unherd

• “The whole reason this scandal is a scandal is that what Nuzzi did was so unstrategic, so stupid; it was a baffling act of self-sabotage where the consequences were potentially catastrophic and the upside was nonexistent.” — Critic's Analysis

Unherd

In summary, Olivia Nuzzi's return to the media spotlight through *American Canto* has sparked a complex discourse about personal accountability, societal judgment, and the implications of her narrative within the broader context of American culture.

Unherd