For many years, the Kennedy name has been synonymous with American history—filled with politics, scandal, and, at times, tragedy.
However, lately, the family’s reputation has taken a hit, becoming almost comical in its civil wars, especially with bizarre social media rants and personal feuds that seem more suited for a reality TV show than real life.
In an effort to mitigate the drama, Kelly Kennedy has reportedly secured a lucrative book deal, all in homage to her late mother, Ethel Skakel Kennedy, who passed away last October at the age of 96.
This is particularly intriguing, given Kelly is Ethel’s daughter and associated with the infamous Robert F. Kennedy, her father.
A source has suggested that this book could be Kelly’s last-ditch effort to rehabilitate the beleaguered Kennedy name.
Kelly Kennedy chose not to comment on the situation.
The upcoming book, titled “Ethel: Faith, Hope, Family and Extraordinary Life,” is slated for release in the fall of 2026 and is being developed with the help of a ghostwriter.
“It’s like the Kennedy brand is taking on water,” an insider mentioned.
Family controversies seem all too common, especially given Ethel’s tumultuous history—she was often a target of public scrutiny, especially concerning her children, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Interestingly, some of the family disputes were allegedly prompted by Ethel herself, including a notorious photo opportunity that showcased her favorite grandchild, subtly excluding Bobby Jr.
Jack Schlossberg, Ethel’s grandson, has made headlines for his jabs at Bobby Jr., even mocking his speech disorder in social media posts.
Caroline Kennedy, another family member, has not held back her disdain for Bobby Jr., branding him a “predator” and questioning his qualifications to run for health office.
Caroline’s frustration seems fueled in part by her exclusion from family discussions, especially regarding Schlossberg’s controversial social media antics.
Jack, who has his own complex relationship with family history, has made quite a stir online recently, further complicating familial ties.
Sources indicate that this ongoing drama leaves Caroline feeling isolated from the rest of the Kennedy clan.
Meanwhile, the Kennedy family feud has roots that stretch back to the famous Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who faced her share of scrutiny from Ethel.
Over the years, the family has harbored tension, with Jackie’s revenge for slights often manifesting against Ethel’s children.
Continuing through generations, J.F.K. Jr. once criticized Ethel’s sons for their behavior, highlighting a long history of discord.
Despite the planned book portraying Ethel in a positive light, insiders suggest that “dysfunction” has been more the norm than the close-knit family dynamic being depicted.
Ethel’s parenting has been described as lacking, particularly concerning her middle children, who were often left to fend for themselves.
Some anecdotes paint a chaotic picture of family life, with a photographer once commenting on Ethel’s struggles in managing her household.
In retrospect, Ethel seemed to acknowledge the looming chaos should her family step into the national spotlight.
