FX’s much-anticipated series “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette” premiered on February 12, 2026, showcasing the early yet complicated romance between the son of President John F. Kennedy and the stylish daughter of a prominent New York family. The release of the first three episodes marks the beginning of a nine-part series that dives into the lives and relationships of these two iconic figures.
The storyline takes an intriguing turn in Episode 1 when Carolyn Bessette, played by Sarah Pidgeon, learns through a tabloid that her recent date with John Kennedy Jr., portrayed by Paul Anthony Kelly, might not be as exclusive as she hoped. Rumors of John’s earlier romance with actress Daryl Hannah come to light, leaving Carolyn feeling uncertain. In an attempt to reconcile, John sends flowers to Carolyn’s workplace, but she declines to accept them, leading to a poignant moment when they meet again at a party. Carolyn expresses her desire to maintain a friendship despite the turmoil, stating, “It was one date,” indicating her understanding of John’s past but showing her own hurt.
In discussing the series, executive producer Brad Simpson noted the challenges of portraying the complex reality of their relationship, stating that it was necessary to jump forward in their story rather than dwell on a series of on-again, off-again encounters. Viewers can look forward to intense moments of passion in upcoming episodes as the series continues to unravel their tumultuous romance.
The show also incorporates significant family history and personal experiences. One emotional subplot features Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, John’s mother, who suffered a tragic fall while fox hunting in 1993. The series depicts John’s care for his mother after her injury, reflecting a deep family bond during difficult times. However, Jacqueline’s health takes a decline as she battles non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma—an impactful storyline that touches on the resilience and struggles faced by the Kennedy family.
Additionally, the series explores other relationships that shaped Carolyn and John’s lives. Carolyn’s time with Calvin Klein model Michael Bergin is portrayed as casual and somewhat complicated, hinting at additional layers to her character. This subplot illustrates the web of relationships that intersected with John and Carolyn, providing a deeper understanding of the social dynamics surrounding them.
The nostalgia surrounding Kennedy Jr. and Bessette’s love story resonates with viewers, as it not only draws on the glitz of celebrity culture but also delves into the emotional turmoil alongside the glamour. As the series continues to unfold weekly on Thursdays at 9 PM ET/PT on FX and available for streaming on Hulu, fans can expect a carefully crafted blend of historical context and intimate storytelling. The program allows audiences to travel back in time to relive the complexities of young love amid fame and family expectations, making it a captivating watch for both newcomers and long-time followers of the Kennedy legacy.