Full Breakdown
Tig Notaro and Cheryl Hines: The Fallout Over Political Differences
3/11/2026, 1:49:20 AM
Background of the Friendship
Tig Notaro and Cheryl Hines co-hosted the podcast "Tig and Cheryl: True Story" from 2020 until May 2023. Their friendship, which predated Hines' marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in 2014, was characterized by humor and mutual support. However, the dynamics shifted significantly as RFK Jr. entered the political arena, particularly with his presidential campaign announcement in April 2023.
Core Event: The End of Their Friendship
Notaro announced her decision to leave the podcast in May 2023, citing the growing political controversy surrounding RFK Jr. as a primary reason. She expressed discomfort with the backlash she faced during her stand-up performances, where audience members would heckle her about Kennedy's views. “I was like, man, this is not my world. I don’t do this. I don’t want to be a part of this,” Notaro stated during an interview on "The Best People" podcast. Despite her departure, Notaro continued to reach out to Hines, but she soon realized that their friendship had become one-sided.
Official Statements & Responses
In her discussions, Notaro emphasized that she did not want to sever ties with Hines but felt compelled to step away from the podcast due to their differing political landscapes. She noted, “What was most upsetting to me is we were in such opposing places, but I continued to reach out to her and send her love and support.” Hines, for her part, acknowledged the strain in their relationship, stating in a November interview that she did not hold anything against Notaro for her decision to distance herself.
Criticism & Opposition
The fallout has not only affected Notaro and Hines but has also impacted Hines' relationships within Hollywood. Reports indicate that Hines has lost friendships with several colleagues, including her former "Curb Your Enthusiasm" co-star Larry David, due to her husband's political affiliations. Critics have pointed out that Hines' alignment with RFK Jr.'s views has led to a significant shift in her public persona, which has surprised many who knew her as a liberal figure.
Verbatim Quotes
- “And I had to kind of shake myself out of denial that, oh, she's gone, and oh, OK, I need to let this go.” — Tig Notaro
- “ "What was a bummer is that there have been some interviews claiming that I just dumped her and just left her in the dust because of Bobby," Notaro added.” — Tig Notaro
- “I don’t hold anything against her because that’s what she feels like she needs to do for herself, and she feels like she needs to distance herself from me.” — Cheryl Hines
What's Next
As both Notaro and Hines navigate their respective careers and personal lives, the implications of their fallout continue to resonate within their professional circles. Hines has transitioned to continuing the podcast with a new co-host, Rachael Harris, while Notaro has expressed a desire to focus on relationships and projects that bring her joy. The evolving political landscape and its impact on personal relationships remain a topic of discussion among their peers and fans alike.
