Olivia Nuzzi’s much-discussed book, *American Canto*, is out now, revealing some intriguing details about an alleged sexting episode involving Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is only referred to as “The Politician.” Interestingly, there are more anonymous figures in the mix.
Here’s a brief rundown of eight blind items from the book, including some speculations on who they might be about (though some critics are suggesting it reads more like fiction).
Blind Item: Actress Who Called Nuzzi ‘Rapeable’
Nuzzi describes an encounter at a dinner party hosted by an executive closely linked to former President Barack Obama. The actress, noted for her surreal advice, reportedly approached Nuzzi and made a shocking statement about life and consent, leaving Nuzzi both impressed and disturbed.
My guess here? The actress might be Uma Thurman, who was dating Bloomberg executive Justin B. Smith at the time. They were at a gathering in Washington, D.C., quite close to Obama’s residence, which gives this guess some weight.
The newspaper reached out to representatives of both Thurman and Smith for comments.
Blind Items: “Crazy” Funders
Nuzzi shares that the Politician had a contentious relationship with a woman who funded his campaign. During one heated call, she reportedly lashed out at him, leading him to question her stability. A tech billionaire had warned him about her before it was too late.
It seems this is about Nicole Shanahan, Kennedy’s partner during the 2024 independent presidential run. She has invested heavily—over $19 million—into his campaign. There are rumors of her past with Elon Musk, which she denies, calling them defamatory.
Blind Item: “Black-Haired Woman” Who Attacked Politicians
Nuzzi reflects on a tumultuous relationship marked by violence and chaos. An account reveals how the Politician narrowly escaped harm during a vicious confrontation with his estranged wife, highlighting a troubled past.
My hunch? This might refer to Mary Richardson Kennedy, who tragically passed away in 2012 after struggling with severe personal issues.
Blind Item: The Leader Who Scolded Nuzzi
According to Nuzzi, a mentor turned figure from her past admonished her regarding her connection to the Politician. This added another layer of complexity to her already tumultuous career.
It could be referring to Carla Swisher, renowned technology journalist, who seemingly played a role in reporting the alleged relationship between Nuzzi and Kennedy.
Blind Items: “The Men I Worked For” and Their Mistresses
Nuzzi recounts her experience during a meeting at New York Magazine after rumors surfaced, expressing her disbelief at the dynamics of workplace gossip and pressure from higher-ups.
This likely ties back to David Haskell, the editor-in-chief of New York Magazine, who was allegedly in Milan during the scandal’s peak.
Blind Items: Politicians’ Threats to the ‘Non-Married Man’
A message from the Politician to a man Nuzzi refers to (yet claims she’s not married to) details a threat stemming from ongoing harassment, veering into personal territory. It’s suggested that this man is Ryan Lizza, Nuzzi’s ex-fiancé, who has shared his own perspective on the wild events surrounding their lives.
Blind Item: The Wife
Nuzzi narrates the Politician’s request for her to take a bullet for him, hinting at the stress his political obligations place on his marriage to Cheryl Hines, especially amid rumors of their personal troubles.
Blind Item: Old Royal
Nuzzi mentions her encounters with “former royals” to highlight how public perception can shift based on imagery, possibly pointing to figures like Prince Harry or Meghan Markle.
