Olivia Nuzzi's Former Partner Denies Being a 'Crazed Ax-Wielder'

As reporters Olivia Nuzzi and Ryan Lizza continue to dispute aspects of their past relationship and Nuzzis interactions with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Lizza strongly denies any portrayal of himself as a vindictive figure.

Reporting the facts isnt harassment, and holding someone accountable isnt the same as wielding an ax, Lizza told the Wall Street Journal. I understand why Olivia finds it uncomfortable to face the consequences of her actions.

These remarks followed Nuzzis comments to the publication, where she anticipated criticism after promoting and releasing her book, American Canto, which touches on her sexting scandal with Kennedy that contributed to her departure from New York Magazine last year.

I knew that as soon as I stepped back into the spotlight, someone might come at me aggressively, Nuzzi said. I just didnt know who it would be.

Reports indicate that Nuzzi and Lizza initially agreed on a roughly $1 million deal to co-write a 2020 campaign book for Simon & Schusters Avid Reader Press, a collaboration that Lizza says collapsed due to Nuzzis personal indiscretions.

Through his Substack newsletter, Lizza also alleged that Nuzzi had an affair with former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, whom she had profiled while he was running for the Republican nomination. Additionally, Lizza claimed Nuzzi acted as Kennedy Jr.s private political operative during the 2024 election, raising questions about journalistic ethics.

Lizzas allegations have drawn attention to Vanity Fair, which hired Nuzzi as West Coast editor in September and is currently reviewing the situation.

While Nuzzi dismissed Lizzas posts as fan fiction blended with revenge, he stated he plans to continue his series, saying he intends to reveal Olivias attempts to use false accusations to silence me and prevent the public from knowing the truth.

Analysis: Journalistic Ethics Under Scrutiny

The ongoing dispute between Olivia Nuzzi and Ryan Lizza highlights tensions between personal relationships and professional accountability in journalism. Lizza denies portraying himself as vindictive, emphasizing that reporting facts and holding colleagues accountable is not harassment.

Nuzzi anticipates criticism following the release of her book, American Canto, which details her involvement with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and contributed to her exit from New York Magazine. She expressed surprise at the intensity of Lizza's response, which she described as aggressive.

The dispute also raises ethical questions regarding Nuzzi's past interactions with political figures, including Mark Sanford and Kennedy Jr., and the potential conflicts these relationships pose for journalistic integrity. Vanity Fair is reviewing her role as West Coast editor amid these claims.

While both parties present conflicting narratives, the situation underscores the importance of transparency and ethical standards in reporting, as well as the professional consequences of personal conduct intersecting with public journalism.

Sources:

• Olivia Nuzzi’s Ex Rejects Suggestion He’s a ‘Madman With an Ax’