Evaluating the Accuracy of the FX Series
FX’s limited series, “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” explores the intricate relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. This series, created by Ryan Murphy, stars Paul Anthony Kelly as JFK Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon as Bessette. It delves into the romantic journey of JFK Jr. and Bessette, highlighting both real-life events and dramatized moments.
Key Characters and Events
The series portrays JFK Jr. as the son of former President John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy Onassis. It features several significant events, including his earlier relationships and his eventual romance with Bessette.
- Premiere Date: The series debuted with its first three episodes on February 12.
- Episodes: The show consists of nine episodes.
- Connections: It is based on Elizabeth Beller’s book, “Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.”
Romantic History of JFK Jr.
The show depicts JFK Jr.’s romantic past, including a brief fling with the singer Madonna in the late 1980s. Friends recall that their engagement was minimal, described as barely a fling. The series also highlights his on-and-off relationship with actress Daryl Hannah.
Meeting Carolyn Bessette
According to the series, JFK Jr. meets Carolyn Bessette at a fundraiser for the Amazon rainforest in 1992, organized by Calvin Klein. However, there are conflicting accounts regarding their actual first encounter. Some sources claim they met while JFK Jr. was being fitted for a suit at Calvin Klein.
JFK Jr.’s Relationship with Jackie Kennedy
The series portrays Jackie Kennedy as disapproving of JFK Jr.’s relationship with Daryl Hannah. While Jackie did have concerns about Hannah as a partner, her disdain appears exaggerated in the series. Friends noted that Jackie had a measured opinion on JFK Jr.’s romantic interests.
Real-Life Tragedies and Misinterpretations
One poignant moment in “Love Story” depicts JFK Jr. carrying the urn of Hannah’s deceased dog after a tragic incident. In reality, this event took place in Central Park, not Tribeca. Additionally, the series dramatizes their relationship’s low points, including a heated argument prior to their deaths in a plane crash on July 16, 1999.
- Crash Date: July 16, 1999.
- Fatalities: JFK Jr., Carolyn Bessette, and her sister Lauren lost their lives in this tragic event.
The State of Their Relationship
Controversy surrounds the portrayal of JFK Jr. and Bessette’s relationship status at the time of their deaths. Reports suggest they were experiencing marital difficulties, but friends recall moments of happiness, complicating the narrative presented in the series.
The show “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette” aims to blend emotional storytelling with historical realism. However, the balance between fact and fiction continues to be a topic of discussion among audiences.
