Image Source: The New York Times
Love Story, FX’s highly anticipated limited series that premiered on February 12, plunges audiences into the intimate lives of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. This enchanting drama is inspired by Elizabeth Beller’s biography, *Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy*, capturing the essence of one of the most glamorous couples of the late 20th century.
Starring Paul Anthony Kelly as JFK Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn, the series encapsulates the allure of ’90s New York, a time defined by sleek minimalism and bold style. Production designer Alex DiGerlando shed light on the show’s aesthetic, stating, “There’s a lot of fairytale vernacular when you talk about the Kennedys,” reflecting on the “Camelot” mythology surrounding this iconic family.
The Allure of ’90s Minimalism in Love Story
The design of Love Story emphasizes a controlled color palette and clean lines that characterized the fashion and architecture spanning that era. DiGerlando made deliberate efforts to strip away clutter to focus on the minimalistic aspects of urban living. “Probably the biggest thing that makes this show feel like it takes place in a different time period is that there are no phones,” he explains, highlighting how the absence of modern technology shapes the narrative’s atmosphere.
Design Inspirations Drawn from Real Life
Central to the narrative is Calvin Klein’s New York City headquarters, where Bessette Kennedy launched her career. DiGerlando reflects on how the iconic designer’s workspace shaped the show’s visual identity. “Klein was at the forefront of that look in the ’90s,” he notes, as the design team meticulously recreated Klein’s sleek office spaces. This section of the show serves as a cornerstone for establishing the tonal foundation of late-’90s NYC.
- Recreating Klein’s workspace involved sourcing original designs from the decade.
- Glass brick was used to illustrate light play, stylizing the work ambiance.
Inside JFK Jr.’s Loft: A Chic Reimagining
The series brings viewers to JFK Jr.’s loft in Tribeca, featuring exterior shots filmed at his actual residence on North Moore Street. The interiors were constructed on set, reflecting a sophisticated yet simplistic lifestyle. DiGerlando mentioned, “His space was described as a little fratty. We tried to make it more chic.” This careful curation evokes the grandeur of JFK Jr.’s real-life living space, while still modernizing it for television.
The set design team drew from limited photos and personal accounts to ensure an authentic portrayal. Significant details like a subtly scalloped ceiling echo the loft’s true architecture and emphasize the merged narratives of JFK Jr. and Bessette.
Exploring Jackie Kennedy’s Apartment
Another dimension of the series features Jackie Kennedy’s Fifth Avenue apartment. DiGerlando remarked that recreating her space was “a little bit of a puzzle,” focusing on blending elegance with the show’s overall minimalist approach. While respecting Jackie’s signature style, the creative team streamlined her aesthetic to avoid overwhelming the narrative.
- The apartment features delicate patterns and a cohesive color scheme of blush, tan, and gray.
- This design choice symbolically connects Jackie and Carolyn, two significant women in JFK Jr.’s life.
A Sneak Peek into the Kennedy Compound
Future episodes will showcase a fictionalized version of the Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port, presenting its own design challenges. A scenic waterfront property in Bellport, Long Island, will serve as the setting. The production team molded the aesthetics to resonate with the revered Kennedy style, completing the location with signature elements like a flagpole and a white pebble driveway.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Love Story
As viewers embark on this nostalgic journey through the lives of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, Love Story promises to resonate not just as a retelling of love but as a visual study of a defining moment in American culture. The series elegantly balances the glamour and reality of its subjects, paying homage to their enduring legacy.
FAQs
What is Love Story about?
Love Story depicts the intimate lives of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, showcasing their romance against the backdrop of 1990s New York City.
Who stars in Love Story?
Paul Anthony Kelly plays John F. Kennedy Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon portrays Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in the FX series.
When did Love Story premiere?
Love Story premiered on February 12, 2026.
What style is Love Story set in?
The series highlights ’90s minimalism, focusing on sleek design and a controlled color palette reflective of the era.
Is Love Story based on real events?
Yes, it is inspired by real-life events and the biography of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy by Elizabeth Beller.
