Ryan Murphy’s latest anthology series, “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” fails to deliver an engaging narrative despite its promising premise. The show focuses on the brief romance between JFK Jr., played by Paul Anthony Kelly, and Carolyn Bessette, portrayed by Sarah Pidgeon.
The series attempts to recreate the iconic love story of the 1990s, with a budget that could have covered a feature-length film. With a runtime spanning nine episodes, the show’s pacing feels rushed, and the character development is limited. Naomi Watts, as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, shines in some scenes but fails to elevate the entire production.
Murphy’s glossy approach often overshadows substance, reminiscent of his previous works like “The Assassination of Gianni Versace” and “Impeachment.” In contrast, shows like “Pose,” which tackled topics with nuance and depth, are a testament to Murphy’s capabilities. The recent series “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” showcases the network that gives an award-winning performance from Niecy Nash-Betts.
Ultimately, “Love Story” struggles to entertain despite its intriguing premise. With a lack of urgency or compelling lessons, the show feels like American history for fashion influencers rather than a meaningful exploration of the Kennedy family’s story.
Source: https://www.salon.com/2026/02/12/the-shrunken-ambition-of-ryan-murphys-love-story