What we agree on:

     Love Story, starring Sarah Pidgeon and Paul Anthony Kelly, is an engaging adaptation inspired by the real life relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. John F. Kennedy Jr., the son of President John F. Kennedy was a lawyer, journalist, and public figure, while Carolyn Bessette was a Calvin Klein publicist known for her influence on minimalist fashion. Set in early-2000s New York City, the show captures the era’s nostalgia through its music and visuals, featuring songs like “Linger” by The Cranberries and “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over” by Jeff Buckley. The casting is particularly impressive as both actors effectively encapsulate the couple’s appearance and presence. Carolyn’s timeless, minimalist style, with a focus on sleek silhouettes, is well represented through the wardrobe, while JFK Jr.’s relaxed yet polished look, often combining suits with baseball caps, reflects his signature 1990s aesthetic. The show’s visuals are also a strength, with carefully selected locations such as Martha’s Vineyard, the Calvin Klein office, and Central Park helping to create an authentic and immersive setting.

     At the same time, we both acknowledged that the show lacks accuracy in its portrayal of real events. Aside from the costumes and visual details, much of the narrative appears dramatized. The writers do not fully capture the complexity of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s relationship, instead presenting a more simplified and romanticized version for the screen. Additionally, Daryl Hannah, John F Kennedy Jr’s former girlfriend, is portrayed in a negative light, which may lead viewers to favor Carolyn without understanding the full context of their relationship. The highly photographed fight in the park further reflects this issue as the exact details of their private conversation are unknown. As a result, while the show succeeds aesthetically, the historical accuracy is compromised in order to create a compelling narrative.

What we didn’t agree on:

Sia’s Opinion:

I believe it was good that Carolyn Bassette ended up with JFK Jr. Despite their tumultuous relationship, they were good for each other. As seen in the show, they were deeply in love and fought to make their relationship work. Those who knew the two of them recalled how they were deeply devoted to each other and said, “they were true soulmates.” Many of the fights in the show were assumed by the writer, wrongly portraying the complexity of their relationship. For example, the dialogue in the fight scene in the park is alleged. While the fight was public, it is unknown what they were truly discussing, and by making such assumptions, the show is tainting the relationship by spreading inaccuracies.

Samantha’s Opinion: 

Michael Bergin, whom Carolyn Bessette was dating prior to JFK Jr., was a rising model for Calvin Klein and a caring, understanding boyfriend. Carolyn should have ended up with Michael because she detests paparazzi and highly public relationships. Most of her conflicts in the show revolved around her desire to keep her relationship private and the fact that JFK Jr. was often misled by writers spreading false information about her. Additionally, she did not fit into his high-class and elite family, who were unwelcoming. With Michael, Carolyn would have shared similar careers, allowing them to work and grow together without the pressures of constant media attention. Overall, Michael Bergin would have provided Carolyn with a more supportive and private relationship, better suited to her personality and lifestyle.