The series exploring the relationship of one of the most famous American couples is finally here. Releasing Thursday, February 12, ‘Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’ is based on the couple’s true story. Inspired by Elizabeth Beller’s biography ‘Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy,’ the series stars Paul Kelly and Sarah Pidgeon in titular roles. Here’s all you need to know about the real-life chapters of their love story.
Real-life events with dramatised storytelling
‘Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette’ series retells the real-life relationship of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. The show covers how they met, their secret wedding, and the challenges they faced in public and private life. It draws on biographies, interviews, and historical accounts to show the key moments of their romance and the events leading to their tragic deaths. The series blends real events with dramatized storytelling.
In their first meeting, John F. Kennedy Jr. asked Carolyn Bessette for her number
John F. Kennedy Jr. first met Carolyn Bessette in 1992 when she worked in publicity at Calvin Klein. Kennedy visited for a fitting and asked for her number. They later reconnected at a gala in May, spending over an hour talking. At that time, Kennedy was involved in an on-and-off relationship with actress Daryl Hannah. After their breakup in 1994, Kennedy began to pursue Bessette seriously, though she was cautious about committing.
How their bond grew stronger
Bessette and Kennedy slowly developed their relationship over the next few years. Friends noted that Bessette was unsure of Kennedy’s intentions at first. Kennedy, unaccustomed to rejection, continued to spend time with her. They shared quiet weekends, including Memorial Day trips to friends’ summer homes. While Kennedy briefly returned to Daryl Hannah, he soon focused entirely on Bessette. Their bond grew stronger despite the challenges and distractions in their personal lives.
When the couple got engaged
On July 4, 1995, Kennedy proposed to Bessette while on a fishing boat in Martha’s Vineyard. He spoke about partnership and shared life, not just ordinary moments. Bessette waited three weeks before accepting, reflecting her careful nature and respect for Kennedy’s family traditions.
A private wedding away from the limelight
The couple married on September 21, 1996, at the Greyfield Inn on Cumberland Island, Georgia. Only 32 guests attended, and each guest presented a special Indian nickel to enter. The ceremony was kept secret from the media and the public.
The couple faced intense public scrutiny
After their marriage, Kennedy and Bessette faced intense media scrutiny. Bessette-Kennedy sought privacy, which sometimes caused tension with the press. Kennedy often spoke publicly to defend his wife and requested space for her adjustment.
The couple’s tragic demise
On July 16, 1999, Kennedy, Bessette, and Bessette’s sister Lauren passed away in a plane crash over the Atlantic Ocean while traveling to a wedding in Martha’s Vineyard. Their bodies were recovered four days later.The series ‘Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’ can be streamed on Hulu starting February 12.
