Cheryl Hines is adept at sidestepping blame, especially when it comes to real estate disputes.
On Thursday, the “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star responded to Chelsea Handler’s assertion that she and her husband, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., sold her a “toxic” residence.
In an exclusive interview with People, Hines expressed skepticism regarding the timing of Handler’s remarks, pondering why the comedian chose this moment to voice her grievances. “She bought this house five years ago and is just now complaining about it,” Hines noted. “I don’t know that she’s getting a lot of sympathy from people. She’s buying a $6 million house.”
Handler’s claims of feeling deceived over a “toxic” property left Hines questioning the validity of those statements. “It doesn’t make sense,” she added. “I did write her a personal note when she moved in, just saying how much we love the house. I hope she has a beautiful life in this house. If you need anything, call me. I left my number.”
Hines further suggested that Handler might be seeking attention, implying that mocking her husband is part of the comedian's routine. “It’s probably fun for her to make fun of him,” Hines remarked.
Interestingly, Handler’s criticisms stemmed from a recent podcast episode where a listener expressed discomfort with Kennedy’s gym habits, particularly his choice to work out in blue jeans alongside a substantial security detail. This prompted Handler to share her own frustrations regarding the home she purchased from Kennedy.
Handler revealed that she had not lived in the Los Angeles property since buying it five years ago, stating, “That’s how messed up this house was.” She questioned how someone responsible for public health could neglect such fundamental issues as a proper foundation.
After acquiring the home, Handler claimed she was informed it was “the most toxic environment” and uninhabitable for at least two years. Her frustrations escalated when she discovered an illegal outdoor storage unit on the property. “How did they not find this upon the first inspection?” she wondered aloud.
Handler also recounted her reaction to Hines’ note, expressing disbelief at its content: “Let us know if there’s anything we can do for you, Chelsea.” She recalled thinking, “Yeah, how about a proper foundation?”
In a later appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s show, Handler clarified that she was unaware she was purchasing the home from Kennedy and Hines due to it being held in a blind trust. She acknowledged that many issues with the property went unnoticed during inspections but mentioned that she has finally moved in.
