Olivia Nuzzi, a political writer for New York Magazine, was granted a protective order against her ex-fiancé, Ryan Lizza, after accusing him of harassing and blackmailing her. Nuzzi was put on leave after admitting to a “personal relationship” with fringe presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The relationship was never physical, but Nuzzi said it should have been disclosed to prevent any appearance of conflict. Lizza allegedly organized a campaign to harass and blackmail Nuzzi after their relationship ended.
The protective order granted by Magistrate Judge Robert Hildum prohibits Lizza from contacting Nuzzi and requires him to stay away 100 yards from her until an October hearing. Nuzzi claimed that Lizza hacked her devices to surveil and collect materials for blackmail. She also accused him of threatening physical violence to force her into a financial responsibility agreement related to a joint book deal.
Kennedy’s name was not mentioned in the filing, but Nuzzi hinted at a connection to his disclosure. Kennedy, an anti-vaccine advocate and conspiracy theorist, dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed Donald Trump. Lizza denied the allegations made by Nuzzi and stated that he would defend himself vigorously.
Throughout the controversy, both Nuzzi and Lizza were prominent political journalists with Politico and New York Magazine. Their dispute has drawn attention to the complexities of professional and personal relationships within the media industry.
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