**Paul Anthony Kelly Eyes New Challenges Following Breakout Role in ‘Love Story’**
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Rising star Paul Anthony Kelly is already looking to the future after his acclaimed performance as John F. Kennedy Jr. in FX’s drama series “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette.” Attending Disney’s recent Toast to Television event on 27 April, the 37-year-old actor expressed his desire to explore a new character arc, specifically a villain role, which he finds particularly appealing.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Kelly shared his aspirations, stating, “I really want to play a villain,” suggesting a readiness to tackle characters on the darker side of the spectrum. His recent portrayal of JFK Jr. showcased his ability to carry significant emotional weight, and now he seeks to expand his repertoire by embracing the complexities of a nefarious character.
Reflecting on his post-“Love Story” plans, Kelly revealed that he has “just signed on to something that I’m very excited about.” However, he remained tight-lipped about the details, adding, “I can’t say anything yet.” This cryptic announcement has left fans eager for news about his next project.
The much-talked-about series “Love Story” aired from February to March and chronicled the romance between JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette leading up to their tragic deaths in a plane crash in 1999. Kelly’s performance, alongside co-star Sarah Pidgeon, has garnered praise for its authenticity. The cast also featured notable talents such as Naomi Watts, Grace Gummer, and Alessandro Nivola, contributing to a rich storytelling experience that resonated with viewers.
During the event, Kelly also shared insights into his personal life, highlighting the influence of his parents on his career choices. He expressed gratitude for their enduring relationship, stating, “I’m very fortunate that they are still very much in love and together… it was also an example that I try to lead by now.” This reflection on family values underscores the importance of support systems in shaping his professional journey.
The casting of Kelly as JFK Jr. was a meticulous process for the executive producers of “Love Story,” who faced significant challenges in finding the right actor for the role. Brad Simpson, one of the show’s producers, recounted the frantic search that lasted until three weeks before shooting began. The team auditioned numerous actors aged 25 to 38 and even turned to unconventional casting methods, including scouting potential candidates in public places.
Creator Connor Hines noted that the team explored various avenues, including reaching out to individuals on social media platforms. However, they found something missing until they discovered Kelly, whose look they described as embodying the classic masculinity reminiscent of actors like Richard Gere and Tom Selleck. This unique quality, combined with his audition performance, ultimately secured him the role of JFK Jr.
Simpson recalled the pivotal moment during Kelly’s screen test, saying, “I remember one of the hair and makeup people passing by me and saying, ‘You’re crazy if you don’t cast him.’ It was just clear that he was JFK.” This sentiment reflects the consensus among the producers, who believed Kelly had the ideal blend of charisma and depth to portray the complex character.
With “Love Story” currently streaming on Hulu, Kelly’s portrayal has already established him as a formidable presence in the entertainment industry. As he navigates his newfound fame and explores different roles, audiences are keen to see what he will take on next.
In summary, Paul Anthony Kelly is a talent on the rise, eager to expand his horizons after the success of “Love Story.” With thoughts of gracing the screen as a villain, alongside an undisclosed upcoming project, the actor appears poised to captivate audiences in new and exciting ways. As fans speculate about his next move, it is clear that Kelly’s journey has only just begun.