Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is a prominent American radio host, attorney, and activist with an estimated net worth of $50 million. He belongs to the renowned Kennedy family, which amassed significant wealth through real estate and investments initiated by his grandfather, Joseph Kennedy. Although the precise value of the family trusts remains undisclosed, Joseph Kennedy’s fortune was estimated to be between $200 million and $400 million by “Fortune Magazine” in 1957, ranking him among the wealthiest individuals in the nation.
Following the tragic assassinations of his uncle, John F. Kennedy, in 1963, and his father in 1968, Robert inherited substantial wealth. Adjusted for inflation, their fortunes would equate to approximately $100 million each in today’s currency. Beyond his inherited wealth, Robert owns a property in the affluent Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles valued at around $7 million. Additionally, he possesses a stake in the iconic Hyannis Port compound, although its true value is challenging to ascertain as it is unlikely to be put up for sale.
| Category | Richest Business › Lawyers |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $50 Million |
| Birthdate | Jan 17, 1954 (70 years old) |
| Birthplace | Washington, D.C. |
| Gender | Male |
| Profession | Lawyer, Writer, Author, Presenter, Activist |
| Nationality | United States of America |
Robert and his wife, Cheryl Hines, previously sold a residence in Malibu for $6 million to Kenny G’s ex-wife in 2017. Financial disclosures from June 2023 reveal that Robert earned $8 million in the preceding twelve months, primarily through speaking engagements and legal consulting services.
Son of Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of former U.S. president John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endured the tragic loss of his father at the age of 14. He has garnered attention for his controversial public remarks, particularly regarding the anti-vaccine movement and various conspiracy theories.
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Early Life
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was born on January 17, 1954, in Washington, D.C., the third child among eleven siblings born to Ethel Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. He spent his formative years in McLean, Virginia, and Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where the family owned residences. His education commenced at Georgetown Preparatory School in North Bethesda, Maryland.
At the tender age of 14, tragedy struck as his father was assassinated during his presidential campaign in the 1968 Democratic primaries. Hearing the devastating news while attending school in Maryland, Robert swiftly flew to Los Angeles to be by his father’s side. Despite his efforts, he arrived just in time to witness his father’s passing and subsequently participated as a pallbearer at his funeral.
Following these tumultuous events, Kennedy continued his education at Palfrey Street School in Massachusetts before matriculating to Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in American History and Literature. He pursued further academic endeavors at the University of Virginia, where he obtained his Juris Doctor degree, and later at Pace University, where he attained a Master of Laws.
Legal Career
Kennedy embarked on his professional journey in 1983, commencing as an Assistant District Attorney in Manhattan. Subsequently, in 1984, he transitioned to Hudson Riverkeeper, assuming the role of an investigator. Following his admission to the New York bar, he ascended to the position of senior attorney in 1985.
In 1987, Kennedy established the Environmental Litigation Clinic at Pace University School of Law, where he served as the clinic’s supervising attorney and co-director for thirty years. Collaborating with law students, he tackled environmental challenges, notably compelling waste-water treatment plants to adhere to the Clean Water Act. Noteworthy among the clinic’s achievements is the 2010 case where ExxonMobil was compelled to remediate millions of gallons of oil spilled from refineries in Brooklyn, New York.
In 2000, Kennedy co-founded Kennedy & Madonna, LLP, an environmental law firm, alongside attorney Kevin Madonna. Specializing in environmental litigation, the firm handled significant cases, including representing the Ramapough Mountain Indian Tribe against Ford Motor Company for toxic waste dumping on tribal lands and litigation against DuPont concerning contamination from a zinc plant in West Virginia.
Kennedy’s efforts in the latter case earned him recognition as one of the top three finalists for “Trial Lawyer of the Year” by Public Justice. Joining Morgan & Morgan P.A. law firm as counsel in 2016, Kennedy continued his advocacy, championing causes such as representing marginalized communities impacted by environmental pollution, indigenous rights, and combating pollution from factory farming. He staunchly advocated for the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, offering pointed criticism of the oil industry along the way.
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Vaccine Beliefs
Apart from his legal profession, Kennedy serves as the chairman of the Children’s Health Defense, a group advocating the theory that exposure to specific chemicals and radiation is responsible for several childhood conditions such as autism, food allergies, ADHD, and autoimmune diseases. He is notably outspoken within the anti-vaccine movement, frequently asserting connections between certain vaccinations and autism. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, he publicly expressed suspicions that several governmental figures and organizations were seeking financial gain through widespread COVID-19 vaccination campaigns.
Personal Life
In April of 1982, Kennedy tied the knot with Emily Ruth Black, whom he had met during their time at the University of Virginia’s law school. The union resulted in the birth of two children: Robert Francis Kennedy III and Kathleen Alexandra Kennedy. However, by 1992, the couple opted for a separation, finalizing their divorce in 1994.
Later in April 1994, Kennedy entered into matrimony once again, this time with Mary Kathleen Richardson. Their wedding ceremony unfolded on a research vessel cruising the Hudson River. Throughout their marriage, they welcomed four children: Conor Richardson Kennedy, Kyra LeMoyne Kennedy, William Finbar Kennedy, and Aidan Caohman Kennedy. However, the marriage concluded in 2010 with Kennedy filing for divorce. Tragically, in 2012, Mary was discovered deceased at her Mount Kisco, New York residence, the cause being ruled as suicide by hanging.
In April of 2014, Kennedy exchanged vows with actress and director Cheryl Hines at the Kennedy compound in Massachusetts. Their introduction was facilitated by mutual acquaintance Larry David, known for his work on the HBO series “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” in which Hines starred. Their romantic involvement commenced in 2012.
Throughout his lifetime, Kennedy found himself embroiled in several controversies, including charges of marijuana and heroin possession. In a notable incident in 1983, at 29 years old, he was apprehended at a South Dakota airport for heroin possession after a near-overdose during a flight. This led to a sentence of two years of probation and 1,500 hours of community service, followed by enrollment in a drug rehabilitation program. Additionally, in 2013, excerpts from Kennedy’s 2001 diary published by the New York Post revealed his admission of multiple extramarital affairs.
Beyond his tumultuous personal life, Kennedy has pursued various interests and hobbies. He holds a license as a master falconer, a passion he has cultivated since the age of 11. Furthermore, he finds enjoyment in whitewater kayaking, undertaking numerous pioneering expeditions across the globe.
Real Estate
In September 2014, shortly after tying the knot, Robert and Cheryl acquired a Malibu compound for $4.995 million. They later sold this property in June 2017 for slightly over $6 million to Lyndie Benson, the ex-wife of Kenny G.
During the same month as their Malibu sale, Robert and Cheryl purchased a mansion in Los Angeles’ Brentwood area, specifically in Mandeville Canyon, for $5.2 million. This Cape Cod-style residence spans 4,908 square feet and boasts 6 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms.
Upon entering, guests are welcomed into a formal living room featuring oak hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry, wood beamed ceilings, and a stone fireplace. The formal dining room offers built-in shelves, a wooden ceiling, and a Dutch door leading to the backyard.
The galley-style kitchen showcases tile floors complemented by granite and butcher block countertops. The master suite features a luxurious soaking tub surrounded by marble, twin vanities, two master closets, and a fireplace.
Outside, the backyard boasts a brick terrace with a fire pit, as well as a swimming pool and spa. Additionally, a rustic-style guest house sits above the garage, complete with a small kitchen, living area, bedroom, and bathroom.
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