Sarah Pidgeon Addresses ‘Strong Opinions’ Around Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s Styling in “American Love Story”

Sarah Pidgeon, the 29-year-old actress set to portray Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in Ryan Murphy’s upcoming series American Love Story, has responded to fan criticism surrounding her depiction of the late fashion icon. The show will delve into the relationship between Carolyn and John F. Kennedy Jr., with details closely guarded. However, when Murphy shared photos of Paul Kelly and Pidgeon as JFK Jr. and Carolyn respectively, fans were quick to express dissatisfaction, particularly concerning Pidgeon’s hair color and wardrobe choices.

At the Los Angeles premiere of I Know What You Did Last Summer on Monday, July 14, Pidgeon addressed the backlash in an interview with Variety, acknowledging the strong opinions circulating amongst fans. She expressed her understanding of Carolyn’s immense popularity and the significance of accurately portraying such an iconic figure. Pidgeon highlighted the multifaceted nature of Carolyn, emphasizing her role not just as a fashion icon but also as a professional at Calvin Klein and the woman loved by JFK Jr. She described Carolyn as a figure who deeply resonates with many people, including herself.

Playing Carolyn has been a deeply fulfilling and empowering experience for Pidgeon, who praised the character’s generosity and confidence. She noted how embodying Carolyn’s qualities on screen had been both enriching and special for her as an actress. Amidst the online buzz surrounding Pidgeon’s portrayal, Carolyn’s hair colorist, Brad Johns, shared his thoughts on the matter. Johns remarked that the depiction did not align with the authentic ’90s look that he had crafted for Carolyn, describing the chosen hair color as too modern for the era and contrasting with the beachy blonde hue he had meticulously developed back in the ’90s.

Carolyn Bessette Kennedy was renowned for her impeccable style and timeless fashion choices, having made a name for herself while working at Calvin Klein before her marriage to JFK Jr. in September 1996. The couple tragically perished in a plane crash on July 16, 1999, alongside Carolyn’s sister Lauren Bessette. Pidgeon’s portrayal of Carolyn’s character has sparked conversation around the accuracy of historical depictions in television dramas and the importance of staying true to the essence of real-life figures.

As fans eagerly await the release of American Love Story, the scrutiny surrounding Pidgeon’s portrayal serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required when bringing well-known personalities to life on screen. With conflicting opinions circulating online, the challenge of meeting audience expectations while staying authentic to historical figures is evident. Pidgeon’s dedication to capturing the essence of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy underscores the responsibility that comes with portraying beloved public figures, highlighting the intersection of artistry and respect for real-life legacies.

American Love Story, with its focus on the intricate relationship between Carolyn and JFK Jr., presents an opportunity to delve into a captivating chapter of American history. The show’s creators, cast, and production team face the challenge of honouring the memory of these iconic individuals while delivering a compelling narrative for audiences. As Sarah Pidgeon navigates the complex landscape of fan expectations and artistic interpretation, her portrayal of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy stands as a testament to the intricacies of bringing historical figures to life on screen.