Bill Clinton made some eyebrow-raising comments at Ethel Kennedy’s memorial service on Wednesday, leaving some attendees feeling a bit uncomfortable. The former president, known for his charisma and wit, seemed to miss the mark this time around.
Clinton began by praising Ethel Kennedy, widow of Robert F. Kennedy, calling her “wonderful.” He then veered into more questionable territory, joking about how he thought Ethel’s mother was “wonderful” until he met Ethel herself. The attempt at humor fell flat, with the audience responding with awkward silence.
Not content to stop there, Clinton pressed on, sharing an anecdote about Ethel’s fondness for practical jokes. He recounted a time when she allegedly put hot sauce in his mouth while he was sleeping. The story, while perhaps meant to be endearing, came across as rather bizarre in the solemn context of a memorial service.
Clinton’s speech took another odd turn when he mentioned Ethel’s “mischievous sense of humor,” suggesting that she would have enjoyed the discomfort his jokes were causing. This comment seemed particularly tone-deaf, given the somber nature of the event.
The former president’s attempts at levity during such a serious occasion highlight the fine line public figures must walk when speaking at memorial services. While personal anecdotes can be touching and appropriate, Clinton’s jokes missed the mark, coming across as forced and out of place.
Despite the awkward moments, Clinton did manage to include some heartfelt remarks about Ethel Kennedy’s dedication to social justice and her role in continuing her late husband’s legacy. However, these more appropriate comments were overshadowed by his ill-timed attempts at humor.
The incident serves as a reminder that even seasoned public speakers can sometimes misjudge their audience and the appropriate tone for an event. It’s a cautionary tale for anyone tasked with speaking at a memorial service: sometimes, less is more, and sincerity trumps attempts at humor.