The leads for Ryan Murphy’s upcoming American Love Story anthology series, a spinoff from his larger American Story franchise on FX, have been revealed.
Entertainment writer Evan Ross Katz revealed on Instagram that Naomi Watts will portray former First Lady Jackie Kennedy, while newcomer Paul Kelly will step into the role of her son, John F. Kennedy Jr. It was previously announced that Sarah Pidgeon will portray Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, JFK Jr.’s wife.
American Love Story will chronicle the passionate relationship and eventual marriage of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy – the anthology series aims to explore iconic love stories that once captivated the public and media worldwide. Kennedy Jr. and Bessette-Kennedy were often seen as ‘American Royalty’ in the 1990s; Carolyn worked as a publicist for Calvin Klein, and the couple became darlings of the celebrity press. Tragically, their lives were cut short in 1999 when JFK Jr.’s private plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Massachusetts. The couple, as well as Carolyn’s sister Lauren Bessette, were killed in the crash.. Kennedy was 38 at the time of his death, and Carolyn was 33.
Murphy unveiled the first images for ‘American Love Story’, offering a look at actors Kelly and Pidgeon as the famous couple. Posted by the Ryan Murphy Productions Instagram account, the photos show the two stars capturing the iconic couple’s style and presence, along with the caption: “FIRST LOOK! Here are some stills from our LOVE STORY camera test. We started shooting this week in New York City and can’t wait until you see the romantic and tragic love story between America’s prince, JFK Jr., and fashion icon Carolyn Bessette—out Valentine’s Day week of 2026 (sic). I am thrilled to introduce you to Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn and Paul Kelly as John F. Kennedy Jr. Over a thousand actors auditioned for each of these roles, and we absolutely found the perfect choices. Congratulations Sarah and Paul!”
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