Disgraced journalist Olivia Nuzzi is reportedly dating Vice co-founder Shane Smith, according to Page Six. Nuzzi, 33, previously parted ways with New York Magazine amid allegations of an emotional affair with presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Smith is 56.
The two have reportedly been seen together in Malibu, where they both reside, and their relationship is described as 'romantic.' Sources indicated that Nuzzi and Smith first met in April at a party hosted by blogger Jessica Reed Kraus.
Nuzzi's past has been marked by controversy surrounding her coverage of Kennedy Jr.'s 2024 presidential campaign. Allegations surfaced, shared by Nuzzi's ex-fiancé Ryan Lizza, that she had an 'emotional relationship' with Kennedy Jr. while assigned to cover his campaign for New York Magazine. Nuzzi has acknowledged an emotional connection but denied that it influenced her reporting and stated it never became physical.
Lizza's claims also suggested that Nuzzi may have engaged in a 'catch-and-kill' practice, acquiring potentially damaging stories about Kennedy Jr. to prevent them from harming his campaign. Nuzzi also faced separate allegations of an improper relationship with South Carolina Congressman Mark Sanford.
Following the emergence of these allegations, Nuzzi was placed on leave by New York Magazine and subsequently 'parted ways' with the publication. She later accepted a contract with Vanity Fair, but her tenure there concluded at the end of the year by mutual agreement shortly after Lizza released his detailed claims.
Insiders at Vice have reportedly stated that Nuzzi is not being considered for a role at the company and that Smith, as a single individual, is free to pursue personal relationships.