Netflix Commissions Kennedy Family Series Starring Michael Fassbender

Netflix, in collaboration with Chernin Entertainment, has officially launched a new drama series titled “Kennedy,” focusing on the prominent Kennedy family. Michael Fassbender has been cast as Joseph Kennedy Sr., the family patriarch. The series is set for an eight-episode first season.

About the Series “Kennedy”

The show is based on Fredrik Logevall’s book “JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956.” Reports indicate this production is envisioned as an American counterpart to the acclaimed series “The Crown,” charting the Kennedy family’s significant political influence over multiple seasons.

Plot Overview

Beginning in the 1930s, “Kennedy” will explore the lives and interactions of Joe and Rose Kennedy alongside their nine children. Key characters will include their son, Jack, who grapples with the pressures of living in the shadow of his celebrated older brother.

Production Team

Sam Shaw is set to serve as the showrunner and executive producer. He is joined by a team of notable producers from Chernin Entertainment, including Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, and Kaitlin Dahill. The executive production team is further strengthened by Eric Roth, Logevall, Lila Byock, Anya Epstein, Dustin Thomason, Thomas Vinterberg, and Anna O’Malley, with Vinterberg also directing.

Cast Highlights

• Michael Fassbender: Cast as Joseph Kennedy Sr.
• Sam Shaw: Showrunner and executive producer.
• Producers: Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Kaitlin Dahill, Eric Roth, among others.

Fassbender’s Career

Michael Fassbender, primarily known for his work in films such as “12 Years a Slave” and “Steve Jobs,” has recently returned to television. In addition to “Kennedy,” he is involved in the Paramount+ series “The Agency,” preparing for its second season.

Sam Shaw, recognized for creating the acclaimed series “Manhattan,” also co-created “Castle Rock,” a show based on Stephen King’s works. His diverse background includes experience as a fiction writer and contributions to notable publications.

This new series, “Kennedy,” promises to deliver an engaging narrative about one of the most iconic families in modern history, revealing the influences that shaped American politics. Audiences can expect an in-depth look at the intimate lives and significant events surrounding the Kennedy dynasty.