**Tragedy and Tribute: The Legacy of John F. Kennedy Jr. at George Magazine**
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On July 16, 1999, the entertainment and political worlds were unsettled by the tragic loss of John F. Kennedy Jr., his wife Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and her sister Lauren Bessette. The three perished when Kennedy’s private plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean while navigating through thick fog on its way to a family wedding on Martha’s Vineyard. The incident sent shockwaves through the nation and left a profound impact on those who worked closely with the charismatic figure who had founded George Magazine just four years earlier.
Kennedy was not only the magazine’s founder, but he also served as its editor-in-chief, guiding its editorial direction alongside publisher Michael Berman. Launched in 1995, George aimed to blend politics and popular culture, providing a fresh perspective on contemporary issues. However, the publication faced a significant challenge in the wake of its founder’s untimely death.
In the aftermath of the disaster, family and friends expressed their heartbreak. Senator Ted Kennedy, John’s uncle, released a heartfelt statement reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by the Kennedy family. He described John as “a shining light” whose influence resonated across the lives of many, from family members to the wider public that had watched him grow up.
The atmosphere at George’s Manhattan offices was equally somber. At the time of the crash, the team was preparing the October 1999 issue, but their focus quickly shifted towards honouring John’s memory. The initial cover plans, which featured actors Harrison Ford and Kristin Scott Thomas in a promotional feature for the film “Random Hearts,” were scrapped. Instead, the team opted for a poignant tribute cover. It featured a blurred image of an American flag, with a simple caption that read: “John Kennedy: A Tribute”.
Kennedy had always been adamant about not using his notable status to hawk the magazine, famously refusing to appear on its covers. This decision was respected in the tribute issue, which symbolised the deep respect the staff held for him. The decision to pivot so quickly toward remembrance was a testament to the impact he had made in just a short span, both within the magazine and beyond.
Meanwhile, George contributing writer Allison Adato recalls being in New York City for an interview with Kristin Scott Thomas just hours before the tragic events unfolded. That day suddenly shifted from excitement about the upcoming publication to a harrowing realisation that would change the magazine’s course forever. Adato described the immediate shock and sadness felt by all, and how the pressing nature of magazine production forced the staff to rally together despite their grief.
As George worked to print the tribute issue, discussions unfolded about the future of the publication. Following Kennedy’s death, there was initial consideration from Hachette’s new CEO, Jack Kliger, to cease publishing. However, what emerged was not just a continuation but a surge in sales and advertising revenue, as readers rallied in support of the beloved magazine.
A new leadership structure was put in place, and while many original staff members chose to stay on, determined to honor Kennedy’s vision, ultimately, the publication could not sustain the momentum. By January 2001, George Magazine ceased operations altogether. Its final issue was, fittingly, dedicated entirely to Kennedy, featuring several of his past interviews and including his image on the cover for the first and, tragically, the last time.
The closure of George Magazine marked a significant moment in media history; it stood as a reminder of the impact John F. Kennedy Jr. had during his lifetime and the ongoing legacy he left behind. The magazine may have folded, but the resilience embedded within its pages reflected the determination of those who believed in its mission and in the vision of its esteemed founder.
For those wishing to explore the stories of John and Carolyn Kennedy further, a special edition of PEOPLE is now available, delving into the lives and legacies of these iconic figures who continue to be remembered fondly.