Naomi Watts Takes on Jackie Kennedy Role in Love Story Series
The new anthology series Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, developed by Ryan Murphy, is now streaming in full on Disney+. This drama retells the tragic real-life story of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, while also featuring other prominent historical figures, including former First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis.
Who Plays Jackie Kennedy in the Series?
The role of Jackie Kennedy Onassis is portrayed by actress Naomi Watts. In the series, Watts depicts the former First Lady during the final years of her life, focusing on her relationship with her son, JFK Jr., and her battle with cancer. Jackie Kennedy first became ill in November 1993, began treatment in January 1994, and died in May 1994 at the age of 64. Watts, currently 57, is approximately seven years younger than Kennedy was at the time of her death.
Naomi Watts' Career and Previous Roles
Naomi Watts made her screen debut in the late 1980s and early in her career appeared in the Australian soap opera Home & Away. She has earned two Oscar nominations for her performances in 21 Grams (2004) and The Impossible (2011). This is not the first time Watts has played a high-profile historical figure; she previously portrayed Princess Diana in the 2013 film Diana and has starred in movies such as King Kong, Birdman, and Eastern Promises.
Fan Reactions to the Casting
Fan responses to Watts' portrayal of Jackie Kennedy have been mixed. Some viewers initially doubted the casting but were later convinced by her performance. One fan commented, "As soon as I saw her pop up on screen, I said out loud: 'No way, they look nothing alike! Casting mistake!' But she got everything about Jackie right! Her voice, her speed and fluency re: words, her posture, all of it!"
However, others were less impressed. A critic noted, "Distracting for me as well. She looks and sounds like Nicole Kidman, not Jackie O. Her accent slipped through too often. Love Naomi but she was so miscast." Another viewer suggested, "I almost couldn't watch the dancing scene. Secondhand embarrassment. Watch Natalie Portman's portrayal of Jackie, it's 10/10."
Series Background and Availability
Love Story is the latest anthology series from Ryan Murphy, following a similar format to his previous works like American Horror Story and American Crime Story. The first season was created and written by Colin Hines and is based on the book Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy by Elizabeth Beller. After being released weekly, all episodes are now available for streaming on Disney+.
