Notaro Addresses Friendship Rumors with Hines

Comedian Tig Notaro has responded to speculation that her friendship with actress Cheryl Hines ended because of Hines’ husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and his political views.

After Notaro stepped away from the podcast she co-hosted with Hines for three years, rumors began to swirl. At the time, Kennedy had just announced his presidential candidacy, leading fans to wonder if political differences were at play, particularly since Notaro had previously supported Trump in the upcoming election. While she acknowledges that Kennedy’s politics influenced her decision to leave, she insists she attempted to keep her friendship with Hines intact.

In an interview with Nicole Wallace on MS NOW, Notaro clarified, “My friendship is [with Cheryl]. It was before Bobby. There were things he thought that I didn’t agree with, but he wasn’t as prominent then as during the pandemic. I think I had to step away from the podcast because it got too ridiculous, especially with him speaking out more and more.”

Notaro noted that political discussions weren’t a part of their podcast, but her association with Kennedy led to unwanted online comments that began to distract her during her stand-up performances. “People would interrupt my shows and yell, ‘Bobby is crazy!'” she shared. She expressed that although she recognized those voices were a minority, she felt disconnected from that world and didn’t want to be involved. Cheryl wanted the podcast to continue, but Notaro felt it was time to leave, despite her affection for Hines.

Even after leaving the podcast, Notaro claims she supported Hines’ decision to keep it going and worked to maintain their relationship.

Reflecting on the situation, Notaro said, “The most upsetting thing was how we were on opposing sides. I didn’t know what was happening behind the scenes, but I kept reaching out, sending love and support. Then it changed; I realized she wasn’t contacting me anymore.” She acknowledged the difficulty of accepting that her friend had become distant, saying, “I had to shake myself out of denial and let it go.”

Notaro expressed regret over narratives suggesting she abandoned Hines due to politics. “It’s unfortunate that in interviews people say I left her because of Bobby. I was trying to be a good friend even if I couldn’t continue the podcast. It was all very strange, but I’ve moved past the confusion and sadness,” she concluded.