JFK Jr's and Carolyn Kennedy's legacy in 'Love Story'

Saturday, 18 April 2026 01:09

Image of John F. Kennedy Jr and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy

The fatal Kennedy love story has been revived in the media. Ryan Murphy's adaptation has earnt over 45 million views, sparking new interest to the 90's "it" couple.

This nine episode short series has struck many viewers' emotions world wide. Heartstrings have been pulled, from the depiction of their growing relationship and to the tragic plane crash. This ended the lives of John F. Kennedy Jr, Carolyn Kennedy and her sister, Lauren Bessette. Murphy's dramatised depiction of Carolyn and John F. Kennedy's tragic love story has been loved and loathed globally. Recently, some members of the Kennedy family have spoken out against the latest adaptation.

Image of Lauren Bessette and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.

I s "Love Story" loathed or loved?

The series has succeeded in many avenues. From capturing Carolyn's original 90's style, to the vintage nostalgia Murphy has executively produced, many Kennedy fans are impressed and hooked to the style of the show. Many are pleased with the casting. Sarah Pidgeon's portrayal of Carolyn Kennedy and Paul Anthony Kelly's role of JFK Jr has been praised vastly because of the quality of their acting. Both actors have felt the responsibility of portraying the members of America's royal family, the Kennedys. From the looks to the actor's talent, the show has brought attention back to the 1999 tragedy.

Image of Carolyn Kennedy and Sarah Pidgeon.

Image of John F. Kennedy and Paul Anthony Kelly.

Another part of its rising popularity is with the styling; strong song choices throughout. Iconic sound tracks such as: Jeff Buckley's "Lover You Should've Come Over" ,The Righteous Brother's "Unchained Melody" and Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender" have aided the 90's aesthetic. Alongside the retro tracks, some modern songs have sparked favour with watchers. Ranging from Taylor Swift's "Love Story", Christina Perri's "A Thousand Years" to Stephen Sanchez's "Until I Found You" , also have made the series more relatable to the modern audience. The presentation and music created a significant impact on the show.

Biopics always have mixed views, especially if some believe there are many inaccuracies. Lately some members of the Kennedys have stated their disapproval to the media. JFK Jr's nephew, Jack Schlossberg stated the show is "Capital F for fiction." Schlossberg stated that Murphy's show displayed a fake reality of John F. Kennedy's Jr's and Carolyn Kennedy's marriage and life. He also encouraged Murphy to donate some of the profit to charities.

Alongside the reactions of the Kennedy's and the wide reactions from the public, the world is united in grief of the Kennedy tragedy. Nearly 27 years after the death of Carolyn Kennedy, Lauren Bessette and John F. Kennedy Jr, the world still mourns and remembers their legacy.