Throughout my life, I’ve grown to love all things history, fashion and pop culture. I was first introduced to history through the “Who Was…” biography series in elementary school, and as a proud Irish-American, I was particularly drawn to the “Who Was John F. Kennedy?” book. I remember after reading it for the first time, I went on my iPad and Googled the Wikipedia page of the entire Kennedy family to learn more about them and their impact on U.S. history.
Along with being prominent figures in politics, certain Kennedys have also been fashion icons. During her time as First Lady, Jacqueline (Jackie) Kennedy Onassis distinguished herself as one of, if not the most, fashionable first ladies in US history. Even after her time in the White House, she continued to influence the fashion world throughout the late 20th century. Along with Jackie, her daughter-in-law, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, is often regarded as a fashion icon. Carolyn, who was frequently bombarded with paparazzi, was seen wearing timeless and chic pieces throughout the ’90s. Even today, 25 years after her and John F. Kennedy Jr.’s untimely deaths, Carolyn’s iconic fashion sense is still talked about.
When the news first broke that Ryan Murphy was creating yet another anthology series, this time focusing on famous couples, like John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, I was very excited. As a fan of his work, including the hit anthology series “American Horror Story” and “Monster,” I was eager to see how he would depict and slightly fictionalize their relationship in “Love Story.”
Although I’ve been looking forward to the release of this new series, which premiered Feb. 12., other people, specifically Jack Schlossberg —the grandson of President JFK and nephew of JFK Jr. — have spoken out against the production this past year. Schlossberg, who has gained prominence on social media in recent years due to his online presence and current congressional run, accused Murphy of exploiting his family for money.
Despite the controversy surrounding the new show, I still tuned in Thursday night to watch the pilot episode and see if it was any good.
Most users who have posted about “Love Story” have nothing but good things to say about the show, which released the first three of nine episodes on Thursday.
In the first scenes viewers are given a glimpse into the life of Carolyn. In the later half of the ‘90s, her and JFK Jr.’s lives were heavily photographed, with the episode showing a swarm of paparazzi outside the nail salon she’s in. From the numerous flashing cameras, it is clear the episode took place during a point in their marriage. Shortly later, Carolyn is seen meeting up with John and her sister, Laureny, at a runway. This was supposed to symbolize the moments before they boarded the plane that would lead to their fatal crash. As the camera shows the plane flying into the distance, the show’s theme begins to play. The rest of the episode contains the lead up to, and eventual, first meeting of Carolyn and John years earlier.
Along with the intriguing plot, I feel that Ryan Murphy and his crew captured the fashion and music of the ‘90s perfectly. The costume designers were able to replicate Carolyn’s simple yet tasteful dresses and blouses, and JFK Jr.’s business and street style. Along with the stunning outfits visible to the audience, viewers are given a taste of ‘90s nostalgia through the soundtrack. My favorite scene, which showed JFK Jr. going to Carolyn’s work at Calvin Klein and asking her out to dinner, featured one of my favorites songs. As the camera shows him waving goodbye to her from the elevator, “It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over” by Lenny Kravitz begins to play. I thought that the addition of this hopeful ballad was a great touch to show the start of something between them.
With the perfect blend of Gen X nostalgia and East Coast vibes, “Love Story” helps ignite interest in the Kennedys. I plan on tuning in every Thursday night, proving that this show is another controversial, yet excellent Ryan Murphy concoction.
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Photo: Zahra Amos / UB Athletics