Horror Icon Jessica Harper’s Chilling Debut as Ethel Kennedy in ‘Love Story’
FX’s limited series, *Love Story*, centers on the romantic relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. Among the captivating performances, horror icon Jessica Harper stands out as Ethel Kennedy, bringing a chilling presence to the screen.
Jessica Harper’s Chilling Debut as Ethel Kennedy
In the fifth episode, titled “Battery Park,” a family dinner scene escalates from warm and inviting to tense and intimidating in an instant. After a light-hearted start, Ethel Kennedy’s entrance shifts the atmosphere dramatically. The question, “Excuse me, Carolyn — are you cold, dear?” creates an immediate tension, showcasing the formidable nature of the matriarch played by Harper.
Harper’s Legacy and Performance
- Jessica Harper is renowned for her roles in classic horror films, including *Phantom of the Paradise* and *Suspiria*.
- She was selected for her role due to the casting directors’ vision of her as the “mother bear” figure of the Kennedy family.
- Executive producer Brad Simpson praised Harper for contributing significant intensity to her performance, influencing the entire cast positively.
Harper’s portrayal is marked by a protective instinct towards her family, particularly John. She notes that her character’s behavior comes from a place of care rather than malice, depicting Ethel as a protective mother figure wary of John’s romantic endeavors.
Creative Direction and Scene Impact
Director Crystle Roberson Dorsey emphasizes the importance of Ethel’s interaction with Carolyn. The deliberate choice to separate Carolyn from John during the dinner enhances the feeling of isolation and dread that Carolyn experiences. This separation allows the audience to immerse into her perspective and share in her discomfort.
Sarah Pidgeon, who stars as Carolyn, describes the scene as reminiscent of horror due to its emotional weight. The stark distance between the characters at the table symbolizes the growing tension and uncertainty in the relationships.
Path to the Role
Harper reflects on her preparation for the role, citing Rory Kennedy’s documentary, *Ethel*, as instrumental in her understanding of Ethel Kennedy’s character. This research allowed her to step into the role authentically, bringing a deeper understanding of Ethel’s demeanor and point of view.
Reception and Legacy
The scene’s dynamic continues to evoke discussions about the portrayal of the Kennedy family and the nature of interpersonal relationships within powerful families. Harper’s performance is already being regarded as a significant contribution to the show’s narrative, illustrating her ability to blend elegance with underlying menace.
Ultimately, *Love Story* showcases more than just a romance; it delves into themes of family loyalty, scrutiny, and the complex dynamics that characterize the lives of one of America’s most iconic families, embodied chillingly by Jessica Harper as Ethel Kennedy.
