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Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for Nuclear Now
- Olivia Nuzzi has officially retracted her request for a protective order against former fiancé Ryan Lizza.
- Nuzzi previously accused Lizza of blackmail in an October petition.
- This development adds another chapter to the tumultuous aftermath of Nuzzi’s relationship with RFK Jr.
Olivia Nuzzi, known for her role as a political correspondent at New York Magazine and recently in the spotlight due to her personal ties with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has decided to withdraw her application for a protective order against ex-fiancé and fellow journalist Ryan Lizza.
In an October filing, Nuzzi claimed that Lizza, who works as a reporter at Politico, had unlawfully accessed her devices and used the information obtained to blackmail her. She alleged that he attempted to persuade her into rekindling their relationship while threatening to jeopardize her career if she declined. At that time, Lizza refuted these claims vehemently.
It is noteworthy that Politico operates under the same parent company as Business Insider.
A representative from Nuzzi’s legal team confirmed to Business Insider that she has withdrawn the request for protection. However, Business Insider was unable to immediately access court documents related to this case since such records concerning domestic abuse allegations can only be reviewed in person at the DC courthouse.
“Ms. Nuzzi is not interested in engaging in any public relations conflict. For further context regarding her decision, please refer to statements made within her motion,” stated Ari Wilkenfeld, attorney representing Nuzzi.
Lizza responded through a statement provided to Business Insider: “Olivia unscrupulously utilized litigation filled with false and defamatory claims as part of a public relations maneuver.”
“When it came time for accountability, she chose not to defend these assertions in court last month. Subsequently, she attempted to conceal my response by seeking confidentiality on proceedings initiated by herself,” he continued. “Now, just before a hearing where I believe my rebuttals would have been revealed publicly, she opted for withdrawal of what I consider fabricated accusations.”
“For nearly one year Olivia deceived me—she misled editors and readers alike; even colleagues were not spared from this dishonesty,” asserted Lizza. “I am prepared and eager to counteract these falsehoods vigorously; however, I am relieved this matter appears resolved—for now.”
Nazzi’s withdrawal marks yet another twist in this unfolding media saga which began when journalist Oliver Darcy reported via his newsletter Status that New York Magazine had placed Nuzz on leave after discovering details about an alleged personal relationship with Kennedy during his presidential campaign coverage.
Nazzi clarified that their connection was non-physical; meanwhile Kennedy’s spokesperson indicated they had met only once during this period.
A third-party investigation conducted into Nazzi’s professional conduct concluded there were no inaccuracies or biases found within her reporting practices according to New York Magazine’s findings prior their separation announced in October.
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