Critics Slam Olivia Nuzzi's Memoir, Allegedly Inspired by RFK Jr. Romance, as 'Aggressively Awful'

Olivia Nuzzis latest memoir appears to be generating more controversy than acclaim, according to early reviews. The 32-year-old journalist, who made headlines leading up to the December 2 release of American Canto, is now confronting sharply negative reactions from prominent media outlets.

Nuzzi, previously a writer at New York Magazine, left the publication in October 2024 amid reports of a purported sexting affair with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the 71-year-old Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Many readers picked up the book anticipating insight into her rumored relationships with Kennedy and, allegedly, former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, as claimed by her ex-fiance Ryan Lizza. Critics, however, argue the memoir offers little clarity.

Molly Fischer of The New Yorker noted that American Canto does not provide comprehensive answers. Readers hoping for a detailed account of her connections with Kennedy will likely be frustrated. The book is neither about Donald Trump nor politics, as Nuzzi clarifies in her authors note. Fischer added that the memoir lacks chronology and cohesion, making it difficult to extract meaningful information for anyone vaguely familiar with her story.

Schaachi Koul of Slate expressed similar disappointment, calling the memoir audaciously dull. Koul criticized Nuzzis repeated focus on her appearance, particularly her blonde hair, and questioned the depiction of her professional struggles. According to Koul, the narrative of overcoming obstacles feels inconsistent, especially given Nuzzis privileged background and early career success.

Alexandra Jacobs of The New York Times described the book as chapterless and scattershot, highlighting vivid scenes such as a factory, open highways, and the Oval Office, but noted that these moments offer little narrative cohesion. The Washington Post labeled the memoir uneven and largely forgettable, with reviewer Becca Rothfield calling parts of it impressively and aggressively awful.

Questions about the memoirs honesty were also raised. Helen Lewis of The Atlantic pointed out Nuzzis claim that she does not wish to be fully understood, suggesting this stance undermines the purpose of writing a memoir.

Currently serving as West Coast editor at Vanity Fair, Nuzzi addressed the backlash by sharing a link to the book on Instagram, stating, If youre going to talk about it, you should read it. She later admitted that the books release went awry and mentioned receiving support from Monica Lewinsky regarding her mental health.

Author: Grace Ellison