Sarah Pidgeon Discusses Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s Iconic Style, Criticism
In a recent interview, actress Sarah Pidgeon discussed her portrayal of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in the FX series, “Love Story.” Pidgeon’s performance has drawn attention for its authenticity and tribute to Bessette’s minimalist style, a hallmark of her lasting fashion legacy.
Landing the Role of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy
Pidgeon quickly became a frontrunner for the role after her first audition. She reflects on the intense audition process, noting that over 1,000 actors were considered for the role of John F. Kennedy Jr., while she stood out among the candidates for Carolyn. This casting choice aims to celebrate the couple’s story in an impactful way.
Reflecting on Carolyn’s Iconic Style
Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s fashion sense remains influential nearly 30 years after her tragic death. Pidgeon embraced wearing vintage designer pieces that reflect Carolyn’s style from her career at Calvin Klein. She highlighted a memorable look, which featured a cream-colored pencil skirt, as an iconic representation of Carolyn’s essence.
Challenges and Criticism
Initial reactions to Pidgeon’s portrayal included criticism, particularly regarding her physical transformation. She worked closely with the costume and hair teams to refine her look, which included significant changes in her hairstyle to better represent Bessette’s image.
- Collaborated with experts to replicate Bessette’s iconic hairstyles.
- Selected costumes that accurately reflected her minimalist fashion.
Pidgeon expressed gratitude for the support she received from Ryan Murphy, the series creator, and noted the importance of collaboration in developing her character’s identity.
The Emotional Journey of Filming
The series captures both the romantic moments and the struggles of JFK Jr. and Carolyn’s relationship. Pidgeon spoke about the challenges of portraying their emotional highs and lows, emphasizing the trust and friendship she and her co-star, Paul Anthony Kelly, developed during filming.
Advocating for Carolyn’s Legacy
Through her performance, Pidgeon aims to honor Bessette’s memory and her strong personality. She reflects on how Carolyn’s confidence and willingness to speak her mind resonate with her own journey as an actress. Pidgeon has made it a goal to embody Carolyn’s spirit while also asserting her own identity through the role.
The Future of Sarah Pidgeon’s Career
Pidgeon is poised to continue her upward trajectory in the industry. With her recent accolades and interest in new projects, she expresses a desire to explore comedy, indicating a shift in her artistic pursuits. Her experience in theater remains a significant passion, highlighting her versatility as an actress.
As “Love Story” continues to air, Pidgeon’s commitment to portraying Carolyn Bessette Kennedy authentically contributes to a renewed appreciation for a fashion icon’s legacy intertwined in a compelling narrative.
