O’Donnell Denounces Kennedy’s Political Shift
In a recent interview with Variety, comedian and television personality Rosie O'Donnell voiced strong disapproval of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his recent integration into the Trump administration. O'Donnell, 64, did not hold back in her assessment, characterizing his decision to join President Trump after being rebuffed by the Kamala Harris campaign as a blatant lack of dignity and self-respect.
"To defile the legacy of his family and that family name is sickening, and turns my stomach," O’Donnell stated. She further described Kennedy as a "dangerous" and "selfish" individual who has been insulated by a lifetime of extreme privilege.
Controversy Over Stance on Autism
A significant portion of O’Donnell’s criticism stems from Kennedy’s rhetoric regarding autism. Serving as the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kennedy has described autism as an "individual tragedy" and an "epidemic," claiming that it "destroys families."
For O'Donnell, whose 13-year-old child is on the autism spectrum, these comments are deeply offensive. She believes such language portrays the autistic community as "valueless."
"I wanted to show autism in a different way than it’s portrayed, and I feel strongly about standing up for my most vulnerable child," O’Donnell explained. "If you’re ready to be a parent, you’re ready to accept whatever your child comes with; and if you’re not ready to accept whatever your child comes with, don’t be a parent."
Personal Connections and Fallout
While O’Donnell noted she was never close with Kennedy during his tenure as an environmental lawyer, she maintained a friendship with his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, through mutual social circles and poker games. When asked about Larry David—who famously introduced the couple—O'Donnell suggested that the comedian likely regrets his role as a matchmaker.
The political divide has clearly strained personal relationships within Hollywood. In 2023, Larry David clarified his position, stating that while he may feel "love and support" for his longtime friend Hines, he does not support her husband’s political trajectory. By December 2025, Hines acknowledged that her relationship with David had become estranged due to her husband's role in the current administration, noting that she believes David is "mad" about the political alignment.