Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette Cast Announced with Stellar Lineup
The highly anticipated new series Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette has premiered on Disney Plus, offering a dramatic retelling of one of America's most captivating and tragic real-life romances. Based on Elizabeth Beller's book Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, the show delves into the couple's relationship and their intense media scrutiny.
Leading Roles and Supporting Cast Members
In the central roles, Paul Anthony Kelly portrays John F. Kennedy Jr. in only his second acting credit, while Sarah Pidgeon takes on the role of Carolyn Bessette. Pidgeon is known for her work in the 2025 remake of I Know What You Did Last Summer and appearances in The Wilds and Gotham.
They are joined by Grace Gummer as Caroline Kennedy, John's older sister, who has previously starred in Ryan Murphy projects like All's Fair and American Horror Story. The cast also features Oscar-nominated star Naomi Watts as former First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis, adding significant prestige to the production.
Notable Actors Playing Real-Life Figures
The series includes several other accomplished actors portraying real people from the couple's circle:
- Alessandro Nivolla as fashion icon Calvin Klein, following his appearance in Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.
- Leila George as Kelly Klein, Calvin's on-screen wife, known for her role in the crime drama Animal Kingdom.
- Constance Zimmer as Carolyn's mother Ann Messina Freeman, recently seen in The Lincoln Lawyer.
- Sydney Lemmon as Carolyn's sister Lauren Bessette.
- Dree Hemingway as Daryl Hannah, with notable credits including the film Starlet.
- Erich Bergen as John's cousin Anthony Radziwiłł, from Madam Secretary.
- Michael Nathanson as JFK Jr.'s business partner Michael Berman, with roles in The Knick, The Punisher, and Succession.
Series Premiere and Streaming Details
The first three episodes of Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette began streaming on Disney Plus on February 13, 2026. The series aims to explore the couple's relationship dynamics and their entanglement with national fascination, featuring characters from fashion, politics, and Hollywood.
This ensemble cast brings depth and authenticity to the tragic story, making it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and celebrity biographies.
