The legacy of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is coming to life once again in “American Love Story.” This time, it’s through the lens of acclaimed producer Ryan Murphy. Known for his anthology hits like “American Horror Story,” “American Crime Story,” and “Feud,” Murphy’s latest project will explore the captivating and ultimately tragic romance of America’s most glamorous ’90s couple. As anticipation builds ahead of its 2026 premiere on FX, here’s a complete guide to the series’ cast and what viewers can expect from the show.
Who’s Playing the Iconic Couple in ‘American Love Story’?
Leading the series as the impeccably stylish Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is Sarah Pidgeon, who recently earned a Tony nomination for her performance in “Stereophonic” on Broadway. According to Vogue, she is an emerging talent recognized for her roles in “The Wilds” and “Tiny Beautiful Things.”Â
She’s also slated to star in the upcoming reboot of “I Know What You Did Last Summer.” However, “American Love Story” may be her most high-profile role to date.
Opposite Pidgeon is newcomer Paul Kelly as John F. Kennedy Jr., the beloved son of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Murphy’s team reportedly auditioned over a thousand actors before selecting Kelly. He told his Instagram followers that they “absolutely found the perfect choices.â
The series will depict the evolution of John and Carolyn’s relationship. It will cover everything from their first meeting at Calvin Klein in the early ’90s, to their secret wedding in 1996, to their tragic deaths in a plane crash off Martha’s Vineyard in 1999.
Famous Faces Join as the Kennedy Family and Inner Circle
Joining the leading duo in “American Love Story” is two-time Oscar nominee Naomi Watts as the legendary Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Watts is familiar to Murphy’s TV universe thanks to her role in “The Watcher.” She will be playing the former First Lady during the later years of her life.Â
Grace Gummer has been cast as Caroline Kennedy, John’s older sister. Sydney Lemmon will portray Lauren Bessette, Carolyn’s sister who also tragically perished in the plane crash. Rounding out the cast is Alessandro Nivola as fashion icon Calvin Klein, Carolyn’s former employer during her time as a publicist at his fashion house.
‘American Love Story’ Plot Details and Release Date: What We Know So Far
The debut season of “American Love Story” will follow John and Carolyn’s whirlwind romance from their beginnings in New York to their rise as America’s most photographed couple. The story will delve into the pressures they faced, both from their careers and relentless tabloid scrutiny, as well as the rumored tensions in their marriage. The emotional weight of their personal struggles will be front and center, alongside their status as symbols of American royalty.
According to Murphy, production began in New York City in mid-2025, with the series slated to premiere during Valentine’s Day week in 2026 on FX.Â
The timing underscores the show’s thematic focus on love, fame, and tragedy. The series will also offer a poignant exploration of Carolyn Bessette’s lasting cultural influence, which executive producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson say resonates with younger audiences today.
With a star-studded cast and the creative force of Murphy behind it, “American Love Story” promises to be a thoughtful, stylish, and emotionally charged retelling of one of the most captivating real-life love stories in modern American history.
Tell us! Will you be tuning in when “American Love Story” premieres next year? Let us know in the comments below.
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