Ryan Murphy has unveiled a first look at his highly anticipated FX series, “American Love Story,” which centers on the iconic romance between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. The announcement, made via the Ryan Murphy Productions Instagram account on Friday, included images of actors Sarah Pidgeon and Paul Kelly fully transformed into the couple, capturing the essence of the late 1990s New York glamour and intrigue.
The series, set to debut in February 2026 during Valentine’s Day week, promises to explore the passionate yet tragic relationship between JFK Jr., often dubbed “America’s prince,” and fashion icon Carolyn Bessette. Naomi Watts is also set to star as Jackie Kennedy, adding another layer of depth to the portrayal of this storied family.
Production Begins in New York City
According to Murphy’s Instagram post, production commenced this week in New York City, a fitting backdrop for the series given the Kennedy family’s historical ties to the city. “We started shooting this week in New York City and can’t wait until you see the romantic and tragic love story between America’s prince, JFK Jr., and fashion icon Carolyn Bessette,” Murphy wrote, expressing his excitement for the project.
Murphy highlighted the rigorous casting process, noting that over a thousand actors auditioned for the roles of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. “I am thrilled to introduce you to Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn and Paul Kelly as John F. Kennedy Jr. We absolutely found the perfect choices,” he stated, underscoring the importance of authenticity in portraying these historical figures.
A New Chapter in Murphy’s FX Legacy
“American Love Story” is the latest addition to Ryan Murphy’s extensive portfolio at FX, where he has an overall deal under Disney. The series joins Murphy’s acclaimed lineup, which includes “Feud,” “American Horror Story,” “American Crime Story,” “American Sports Story,” and the upcoming “The Beauty.”
The series is executive produced by Murphy, Brad Simpson, Nina Jacobson, D.V. DiVencentis, and Connor Hines, promising a high-caliber production team behind the scenes. This collaboration aims to delve deep into the complexities of the Kennedy-Bessette relationship, exploring themes of love, fame, and tragedy.
Historical Context and Public Fascination
The relationship between JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette has long captivated the public’s imagination. Their 1996 wedding was a media sensation, and their untimely deaths in a plane crash in 1999 only added to the mystique surrounding their lives. The series aims to provide an intimate look at their personal and public lives, offering new insights into their story.
Historically, the Kennedy family has been a subject of intrigue and speculation, often seen as American royalty. The portrayal of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette in “American Love Story” seeks to humanize these figures, providing a nuanced perspective on their relationship and the pressures they faced.
“Here are some stills from our LOVE STORY camera test,” Murphy captioned the photo. “Congratulations Sarah and Paul!”
Looking Ahead: Anticipation Builds
As production continues, anticipation for “American Love Story” is building among fans and critics alike. The series is expected to offer a fresh take on a well-known narrative, combining historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling. With its Valentine’s Day release, the series is poised to capture the hearts of viewers, offering a poignant reminder of a love story that, despite its tragic end, continues to resonate with audiences.
The release of “American Love Story” will likely reignite discussions about the Kennedy legacy and the enduring fascination with their lives. As viewers prepare for the series, the question remains: how will this portrayal influence public perception of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette?
