“Love Story” Revives a Heartbreaking Romance
Ryan Murphy is set to debut his latest docudrama anthology series, “Love Story,” which focuses on iconic couples. This new series premieres on Thursday on FX and Hulu, adding to Murphy’s acclaimed body of work that includes “American Crime Story” and “Feud.” The first episode highlights the romance between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, who were married in 1996 and perished in a tragic accident in 1999.
Exploring a Heartbreaking Romance
“Love Story” is inspired by Elizabeth Beller’s book, “Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.” It chronicles the love story of Kennedy and Bessette, detailing how they navigated intense media scrutiny. The story begins on the day of their death, with Carolyn meeting her sister Lauren and John at a small airport. John, a passionate pilot, was set to fly them to a family wedding in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Viewers familiar with the tragic fate of Kennedy’s Piper Saratoga will find the prologue particularly poignant. The series then flashes back to 1992, the year the couple first crossed paths. Kennedy was only three years old when his father, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated. His life was chronicled extensively, earning him the title “John-John” during his childhood.
Captivating Characters
- John F. Kennedy Jr. – Raised in the spotlight, often regarded as America’s most eligible bachelor.
- Carolyn Bessette – A former Calvin Klein saleswoman who became the brand’s director of public relations.
- Narciso Rodriguez – Designer of Bessette’s unique bridal gown, which cost an estimated $40,000.
- Anthony Radziwill – Kennedy’s confidant, portrayed in the series by Erich Bergen.
Public Fascination and Controversy
The allure of Kennedy and Bessette extended beyond their lives into their tragic deaths. Bessette’s elegant style, often compared to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, enchanted the public. However, early promotional materials for “Love Story” met criticism over inaccuracies, prompting a change in costume design to better reflect the 1990s fashion landscape.
Some family members, such as Caroline Kennedy’s son, Jack Schlossberg, have also expressed concerns. He criticized the series for profiting off of his uncle’s legacy while acknowledging the admiration for Kennedy.
Key Points to Remember
- The series emphasizes the couple’s relationship against the backdrop of intense media coverage.
- It features relationships from both Kennedy’s and Bessette’s pasts, adding layers to their characters.
- Murphy’s production aims to offer a nuanced view of a love story marked by tragedy.
As “Love Story” unfolds, it promises to deliver an intimate portrayal of a romantic saga intertwined with American history and public fascination. Tune in to discover how this couple’s legacy continues to resonate today.
