The ongoing debate about vaccines has once again sparked controversy within the Kennedy family. Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy, publicly criticized Cheryl Hines, the wife of his cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr., over the recent measles-related death of an unvaccinated child in Texas. Schlossberg took to Instagram to express his frustration, demanding accountability for the spread of misinformation regarding vaccines.
Jack Schlossberg’s Strong Statement to Cheryl Hines
Schlossberg posted a direct and confrontational video on Instagram, calling out Cheryl Hines. In the video, he addressed her personally, stating:
His message was clear—those who have remained silent while anti-vaccine sentiments have spread should take responsibility for their role in the consequences of vaccine misinformation.
Measles Outbreak and the Tragic Death of an Unvaccinated Child
The tragic death of a child due to measles in Texas marked the first U.S. measles-related fatality since 2015. Health officials confirmed that the child was unvaccinated, emphasizing the need for immunization. This case is part of a larger measles outbreak currently affecting Texas. Additionally, New Mexico health officials recently reported the death of an unvaccinated adult who had contracted the disease.
Measles is a highly contagious but preventable disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that nearly all recent measles cases in the U.S. have occurred in unvaccinated individuals, further highlighting the importance of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
RFK Jr.’s Stance on Vaccines and Public Backlash
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been one of the most vocal figures in the anti-vaccine movement. His stance has led to significant criticism from both political figures and public health officials. While he initially dismissed the current measles outbreak as “not unusual,” he later revised his statement in an editorial published by Fox News, acknowledging the importance of the MMR vaccine in preventing deadly diseases.
Despite his anti-vaccine rhetoric, Kennedy Jr. continues to gain media attention, especially after being appointed as the Secretary of Health and Human Services under former President Donald Trump. His influence on vaccine hesitancy has been a major concern among medical professionals and pro-vaccine advocates like Schlossberg.
Cheryl Hines’ Position and Response
Cheryl Hines, best known for her role in Curb Your Enthusiasm, has previously expressed political views that do not align with her husband’s controversial stance on vaccines. While she has criticized Donald Trump in the past, she ultimately stood by RFK Jr. when he dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Trump.
Hines has not publicly shared her personal opinions on vaccines. However, she confirmed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter last year that she received the COVID-19 vaccine, unlike her husband. When approached for a comment regarding Schlossberg’s remarks, Hines’ representative declined to respond.
The Bigger Picture: Vaccine Misinformation and Public Health
The resurgence of measles in the United States is directly linked to vaccine misinformation. The CDC has repeatedly warned about the dangers of declining vaccination rates. Before the introduction of the MMR vaccine in 1963, measles caused thousands of deaths each year. Thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. However, recent outbreaks show a disturbing trend of vaccine hesitancy leading to preventable deaths.
Public health experts stress that misinformation spread by high-profile figures, including RFK Jr., has contributed to vaccine skepticism. Schlossberg’s call-out of Cheryl Hines highlights the growing frustration among pro-vaccine advocates who demand accountability from influential personalities who either support or remain silent on vaccine misinformation.
