Cast and Creator Address Backlash and Jack Schlossberg’s Comments
Bringing the Kennedy family to the screen has sparked considerable reactions, particularly for the series “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.” The initial release of first-look images featured Paul Anthony Kelly as JFK Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, leading to immediate criticism regarding their portrayals, especially the depiction of Bessette’s iconic style.
Backlash Over Casting Choices
After early images were shared from Ryan Murphy Productions’ Instagram account last June, observers criticized Pidgeon’s hair and wardrobe, questioning their accuracy in representing Bessette’s ’90s aesthetic. Executive producer Brad Simpson compared the frenzy around the casting to Bessette’s own experience of being thrust into the spotlight, suggesting the scrutiny served as an early course correction for the production team.
Creative Team’s Response
Series creator Connor Hines expressed excitement over the audience’s passion for the characters. The show draws inspiration from Elizabeth Beller’s biography and aims to honor John and Carolyn’s love story, as well as the tragic plane crash that claimed their lives in 1999.
Jack Schlossberg’s Comments
Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s grandson and JFK Jr.’s nephew, voiced his concerns about the series, stating it profited off his uncle’s life inappropriately. The creative team defended their intentions, emphasizing sincerity in their storytelling.
The Casting Process
In casting for JFK Jr. and Bessette, the team initially believed Bessette would be harder to cast. However, Sarah Pidgeon quickly emerged as the frontrunner. Hines noted that finding an actor for JFK Jr. was challenging, involving auditions of over 1,000 candidates before Paul Anthony Kelly was selected.
Balancing Love Story with Tragedy
Hines shared that while the series focuses on the couple’s love story, they also approach the tragedy of their untimely deaths with sensitivity. The creators decided to start the series on the day of their passing to contrast the public persona of Carolyn with her earlier life.
Adapting to External Criticism
Following intense criticism of the initial looks for the characters, the creative team made adjustments. They sourced original pieces from collectors and changed Pidgeon’s hairstyle to better reflect Bessette’s real-life appearance. Simpson stated that they took the feedback seriously and were proud of the final product.
Keep an Eye on the Relationship Dynamics
The series also plans to honor Lauren Bessette, Carolyn’s sister, highlighting the importance of familial relationships. Hines emphasized that Carolyn’s family endured tremendous loss, and he aims to portray that in the series.
Release Information
“Love Story” premieres on February 12 at 6 PM PT/9 PM ET on FX/Hulu, releasing three episodes initially, followed by additional weekly installments. The story aims to delve into the complexities of the couple’s life, marrying love with the realities of public scrutiny.
