Bringing the Kennedy family’s story to life on screen can stir a lot of passion. When first images of Paul Anthony Kelly as John F. Kennedy Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy were shared last year, the reactions were swift and often critical.
Many fashion experts pointed out flaws, particularly in how Carolyn’s hair and style were portrayed. Former stylists weighed in, reminding viewers of Carolyn’s iconic ‘90s minimalist fashion. The media frenzy surrounding the filming only added to the scrutiny. Brad Simpson, an executive producer, noted that it mirrored Carolyn’s own experience of rising from obscurity to being under public scrutiny.
Instead of letting the backlash discourage them, the creative team took it as an opportunity to improve. “It was exciting that people cared,” said series creator Connor Hines.
The show, titled Love Story, is inspired by Elizabeth Beller’s biography, showcasing the romance of John and Carolyn, ultimately leading to their tragic end. They, along with Carolyn’s sister, Lauren, died in a plane crash in 1999. The team is keen to honor their memory and the complexities of their lives.
Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s grandson, has voiced strong opposition to the show, calling it “grotesque.” In response, Pidgeon expressed hope that the Kennedy family would feel the respect and integrity behind their portrayal.
Casting John and Carolyn was no small task. Hines recalls believing Carolyn would be difficult to cast, but Pidgeon quickly stood out. Finding John, however, was a laborious process, with over 1,000 auditions. The team wasn’t looking to cast big names but aimed for lesser-known talents to bring authenticity to the roles.
Naomi Watts, a familiar face, was chosen to play Jackie Kennedy, marked by her ability to embody the complexity of a protective mother at that stage of life. Hines emphasized the importance of showing the couple’s romance, focusing on their love rather than just the tragedy that followed.
As filming began, external criticism emerged about wardrobe and appearance, reflecting the team’s challenges. With paparazzi capturing their every move, Sarah Pidgeon felt the pressure of embodying someone so adored at the time.
The series makers had to listen to the feedback and adjusted costumes accordingly, working with experts to enhance Carolyn’s aesthetic over the years. They wanted viewers not just to see the final product but also to appreciate the journey of the characters.
Casting decisions also kept the memories of Carolyn’s sister alive, with Austin managing the essence of their sibling bond throughout the narrative. Hines, with personal ties to sisters, felt a strong obligation to honor Lauren’s story, reminding viewers of the pain that day brought to Carolyn’s family.
While the spectacle of celebrity culture often steals focus, Love Story attempts to shine light on the relationship dynamics that drove John and Carolyn’s lives, offering a more nuanced view of their shared experiences. The show premieres on February 12 and will air weekly, aiming to keep their legacy and the complexities of their love alive for viewers.
For more insights on the making of Love Story and to explore the deeper themes of love and tragedy, visit NBC News or Vogue.
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Brad Simpson,FX,JFK Jr.,Love Story,Nina Jacobson,Ryan Murphy,Sarah Pidgeon,The Kennedys
