Creators of JFK Jr TV series respond to Kennedy heir denouncing show as ‘grotesque'
The producer of a new Hulu series about John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette responds to criticism from JFK Jr.'s nephew, who calls the portrayal 'grotesque.'
The premiere of FX’s nine-part series 'Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette' on Hulu has drawn significant attention and controversy, particularly from the Kennedy family. Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of JFK, has publicly condemned the series, claiming it profits from his uncle's legacy in an inappropriate way. He characterized the adaptation as 'grotesque' during an Instagram video, indicating his disapproval of such portrayals without family consent and underlining a need for respect and privacy regarding his family's history.
The series chronicles the love story of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette from their initial romance to their tragic deaths in 1999, focusing on personal moments in their lives. Despite its cultural significance, Schlossberg's critique highlights a growing concern among public figures about how their legacies are commercialized. He noted that the Kennedy family was not consulted during the show's production, raising questions about the ethics of storytelling when it involves real lives and their descendants.
Schlossberg's denunciation has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibility of filmmakers and producers when depicting real-life figures, especially those connected to traumatic events. While some viewers may celebrate the series, the backlash from the Kennedy family serves to emphasize the complex relationship between media portrayals, public interest, and familial rights. The ongoing debate over creative liberties versus respect for historical figures underscores the sensitive nature of biographical storytelling in contemporary media.