Kennedy Family Heir Condemns New JFK Jr. Television Drama
The creators of a new television series chronicling the whirlwind life and tragic death of John F. Kennedy Jr. have responded publicly after Kennedy heir Jack Schlossberg launched a fierce critique of the production. The show, titled Love Story, stars Paul Anthony Kelly and Sarah Pidgeon, focusing intently on the lives and romantic relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, culminating in their fatal plane crash in 1999.
Schlossberg's Public Denunciation of the Series
Following its premiere on Thursday, the series ignited a wave of both backlash and support from audiences, including a particularly vocal condemnation from Schlossberg, the nephew of JFK Jr. During the filming phase back in June 2025, the 33-year-old heir publicly denounced the show's creation on Instagram, branding it a 'grotesque way to profit' from his uncle's legacy.
'For those wondering whether his family was ever consulted, or has anything to do with, the new shows being made about him, the answer is no,' Schlossberg stated emphatically. 'And there's really not much we can do.' He elaborated on the legal limitations, noting, 'The right to privacy, which includes the ability to control your own name, image and likeness, doesn't survive death in the state of New York. For that matter, he's considered a public figure, so there's not much we can do.'
Schlossberg expressed hope that the producers would treat his uncle's achievements with due seriousness and consider donating a portion of their profits. 'For the record, I think admiration for my uncle John is great. What I don't think is great is profiting off of it in a grotesque way,' he asserted.
Producer's Defence and Ethical Considerations
Executive producer Brad Simpson has since addressed these 'grotesque' allegations in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. Simpson emphasised that the creators must acknowledge their 'ethical obligation' to the Kennedy family and approach the subject matter with 'love and kindness.'
'What I hope is that when people watch the show, they will see our sincerity. They will see that we’ve approached this with love, and that we were trying to celebrate the life of Carolyn Bessette and JFK Jr,' Simpson told the publication. He encouraged sceptics to view the series, adding, 'I can understand why somebody could have a reaction before they see it. But, I would say, “watch the show,” because I think they’re going to be surprised at how sincere it is.'
Mixed Public Reactions on Social Media Platforms
The exchange has provoked sharply divided reactions across social media. Some users challenged Schlossberg's position, arguing that his complaints about profiteering lack validity given his own family connections.
- 'This motherf***er is the last person on Earth who should be complaining about someone drafting off his family's clout,' one individual posted on X.
- Another concurred, describing the heir as 'Beyond mediocre and uninspiring.'
Conversely, many rallied in support of Schlossberg, contending he possesses every right to express dismay given the direct involvement of his immediate family.
- 'His family’s clout is his clout… he’s part of that family. That’s kind of his god given right,' one user wrote.
- 'Well, that is his family. That is in fact different,' another commented.
Series Details and Thematic Focus
The nine-episode series, created by Ryan Murphy, delves into the private courtship of the high-profile 1990s couple. It traces the progression of their love story up until the tragic plane crash on July 16, 1999, which claimed both their lives. The drama aims to provide an intimate portrayal of their relationship, set against the backdrop of immense public scrutiny and eventual tragedy.
