John F. Kennedy Jr., the youngest son of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, was born into the Kennedy political dynasty in 1960. Now 26 years after his death, his life remains deeply embedded in politics and culture.
The CNN Original Series “American Prince: JFK Jr.” explores Kennedy’s journey from birth to death. Here are five key things to know about him:
Born to American Political Royalty
Kennedy was the first son of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, born just weeks after his father’s election as president.
Growing Up in the Spotlight
Kennedy’s professional choices, dating life, and even relationships were under intense media scrutiny. He went on to marry Carolyn Bessette in 1996 and quietly wed before settling into a Manhattan apartment with her.
The Origin of the Nickname “John-John”
Despite his family never using it, Kennedy’s nickname was coined by the public due to a misheard quote from his father. The term remains a part of the Kennedy legacy.
Education and Career
Kennedy studied American history at Brown University and graduated in 1983. He then attended law school in India and eventually earned his degree from New York University Law in 1989, passing on his third attempt.
George Magazine
Kennedy’s crowning professional achievement was launching George magazine in 1995, a glossy monthly covering politics, television, art, and culture. The magazine worked to turn people into politics and turned out to be incredibly successful, selling half a million copies on its debut day.
The CNN Original Series “American Prince: JFK Jr.” offers an intimate look at Kennedy’s life, exploring the highs and lows of his journey as he navigated his place in the spotlight and sought to make a meaningful impact.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/09/politics/who-was-john-f-kennedy-jr