It’s no secret that the Kennedys have long held a special place in American history, often likened to royalty for their influence, drama, and enduring political legacy.
But behind the public-facing charm, there’s an internal power shift happening—one that’s bringing even more family tension to the surface.
While the clan’s storied past is filled with moments of triumph and tragedy, recent events surrounding their July 4th celebration at Hyannis Port have stirred up whispers and widened already deep rifts.
Kerry Kennedy Steps Into Matriarch Role
Before her passing at the age of 96, Ethel Kennedy, the family matriarch and widow of Robert F. Kennedy, quietly passed the torch to one of her most loyal daughters—Kerry Kennedy.
At 65, Kerry is now being viewed by insiders as the de facto leader of the Kennedy family, stepping into a role that holds not just emotional significance, but also real influence over the family’s public image and inner workings.
Kerry, who was once married to former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, has written a forthcoming book honoring her mother titled Ethel: Faith, Hope, Family, and an Extraordinary American Life.
But her leadership was most visibly asserted during the family’s Independence Day gathering—an event traditionally steeped in unity and legacy.
Bobby Jr. and Jack Schlossberg Get the Cold Shoulder
This year’s holiday celebration wasn’t without its drama.
Notably missing from the family photo were Kerry’s brother, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and their second cousin Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s only grandson.
Sources close to the family revealed that Kerry purposefully excluded Bobby Jr., who has become increasingly controversial for his outspoken views on vaccines and his political alignment with Donald Trump’s administration.
His third wife, actress Cheryl Hines, reportedly felt “heartbroken and angry” over the exclusion.
As for Jack Schlossberg, his erratic social media behavior seems to have worn out its welcome.
His bizarre Instagram posts, including jabs at Jackie Kennedy and even mocking Bobby Jr.’s voice disorder, didn’t help his case.
Kerry reportedly had enough and made the decision to keep him off the guest list.
A Family Feud Played Out in Public
What was once whispered behind closed doors is now a very public feud.
Schlossberg has posted several videos online, attacking his cousin Bobby Jr. with aggressive language, calling his presidential campaign “a vanity project” and accusing him of trading the Kennedy name for personal gain.
Bobby, on the other hand, seems unfazed.
According to insiders, he’s grown used to being the family’s black sheep, especially after taking controversial stances during the pandemic and choosing to align with conservative voices.
Despite the snubs, he remains focused on his public health initiatives.
Caroline Kennedy Joins the Chorus of Opposition
Even Caroline Kennedy, JFK’s daughter and a respected diplomat, joined the pushback against Bobby Jr. During his nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services, she penned a public letter condemning his qualifications, citing his past drug abuse and accusing him of being a harmful influence within the family.
She didn’t stop there. Caroline claimed Bobby encouraged substance use among his siblings, and she wasn’t the only one to take a stand.
Rory Kennedy, another sister, added her voice to the chorus, denouncing Bobby’s presidential bid as “dangerous” for the country.
Kerry Makes It Clear She’s in Charge Now
With Ethel’s blessing, Kerry has not only assumed leadership of the Kennedy legacy but also redefined the family’s public stance.
She continues to support President Joe Biden, aligning with the family’s Democratic roots, and making it clear where she and most of the family stand politically.
The once-unbreakable Kennedy front has cracked wide open in recent years, revealing deep divides, shifting alliances, and the growing tension between legacy and modern identity.
Camelot Meets Reality TV Drama
From political endorsements to Instagram rants, it’s clear the Kennedy family has entered a new chapter—one that looks less like Camelot and more like a high-profile family drama.
According to insiders, the public unraveling of these relationships makes them feel more like a real-life reality show than a political dynasty.
And at the heart of it all is Kerry Kennedy, steering the ship in a direction that many see as both strategic and deeply personal.