Chris Pratt Sparks RFK Jr. Storm on Bill Maher — What He Really Said About His Wife's Cousin

Chris Pratt has sparked headlines in the US after praising his wife's cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during a candid chat on Bill Maher's Club Random podcast.

The Guardians of the Galaxy star described Kennedy as 'wonderful' and admitted he loved him, while also stressing that politics is firmly avoided at family gatherings. His remarks have fuelled debate about whether he struck the right balance between family loyalty and political controversy.

According to Rolling Stone, Pratt even praised Kennedy's child health initiative, the 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, which seeks to improve food standards.

But as People noted, he carefully avoided endorsing Kennedy's more controversial views, instead framing their relationship as a 'family dinner kind of vibe.'

The Schwarzenegger–Kennedy Connection

Pratt's connection to RFK Jr. comes through his marriage to Katherine Schwarzenegger, daughter of journalist Maria Shriver and actor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Through Shriver, Katherine is tied to the Kennedy dynasty, one of America's most influential political families.

That link has placed Pratt in a unique position as Kennedy's profile has grown. Now serving as Health and Human Services Secretary, Kennedy has been both praised and criticised for his policies.

Pratt's careful choice of words on Maher highlighted his attempt to celebrate Kennedy's positive work while sidestepping polarising issues.

Media and Public Reaction

Reactions to Pratt's comments were swift and split down the middle. Some applauded him for speaking warmly about a family member without diving into politics. Others criticised him for glossing over Kennedy's controversial past, including his history of vaccine scepticism and divisive public statements.

On social media, the debate was described by some commentators as a 'storm,' reflecting the heightened scrutiny placed on celebrities who wade into political waters, even indirectly.

Balancing Hollywood, Family and Politics

Throughout his career, Pratt has largely steered clear of politics, focusing instead on his acting and private life. His remarks on Maher's podcast aligned with that approach.

By praising Kennedy personally while avoiding policy endorsements, Pratt reinforced his reputation as someone who prioritises family connections without taking overt political stances.

Unlike some of his Hollywood peers who openly campaign for political causes, Pratt has built an image of keeping politics at arm's length. His comments underline how he manages the fine line between loyalty to family and the demands of public life.

Chris Pratt Beyond Politics

Away from the political spotlight, Pratt continues to make headlines for personal and professional milestones. Recently, he marked his son Jack's 13th birthday by sharing rare Instagram photos, which concealed his son's face but showed the pair bonding over sports and outdoor activities. Pratt reflected on Jack's premature birth and called the moment one of pride and faith.

Meanwhile, his 2016 Western remake The Magnificent Seven, co-starring Denzel Washington, has seen renewed popularity on streaming platforms despite its mixed reviews at release.

Fans also continue to revisit Pratt's performance as Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, particularly one of its darker and more emotional scenes that has sparked widespread online discussion. Looking ahead, Pratt will star in the upcoming sci-fi thriller Mercy, directed by Timur Bekmambetov and slated for release in January 2026.