Grace Gummer has shared insights into her portrayal of Caroline Kennedy in the FX series, Love Story, which details the poignant romance between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, culminating in their tragic deaths in a plane crash in 1999. The actress, known for her strong familial ties to Hollywood, revealed how fashion played a pivotal role in embracing her character’s essence during an interview with Elle.
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Recalling a specific garment from her fittings, Gummer discussed a vintage Valentino striped shirt from the 1980s that wonderfully encapsulated Caroline Kennedy’s classy style. “It has a bit of a shoulder, buttons all the way to the top, and the most beautiful fit,” she noted. “It’s one of those things that can’t be replicated now.” This garment, she explained, sparked an immediate connection to her character, prompting her to feel like “Oh, here she is,” upon trying it on.
The actress emphasised the importance of fashion in immersing herself into her role. Gummer explained that the fitting process allows her to understand and flesh out the character she is portraying. “I sort of build the world of the woman I’m playing as I’m figuring out what she would put on in the morning,” she remarked. This exploration of wardrobe choices provides a crucial piece of the puzzle in her character development.
In the role of Caroline, Gummer aims to portray an icon known for her impeccable style and grace. Caroline Kennedy, now 68, has left a lasting impression on both the worlds of diplomacy and fashion, a fact that Gummer recognises deeply. Her homage to Kennedy is not merely a performance but an effort to reflect the elegance and spirit that define her character’s legacy.
However, not all reactions to the show have been positive. Jack Schlossberg, the nephew of John F. Kennedy Jr. and son of Caroline Kennedy, recently voiced his concerns regarding the producers’ handling of his family’s narrative. Speaking on CBS Sunday Morning, Schlossberg claimed that executive producer Ryan Murphy profits from a portrayal that he believes lacks authenticity. “If you want to know someone who’s never met anyone in my family, knows nothing about us, talk to Ryan Murphy,” he stated.
Schlossberg further articulated his disappointment by suggesting that Murphy’s focus is more on financial gain than on representing their family’s true story. He expressed a desire for Murphy to consider donating a portion of the profits from the show to causes that their iconic family member championed during his life, such as the JFK Library.
This dichotomy between creative expression and familial sentiment highlights the complex nature of dramatizing real lives on screen. As Gummer approaches her character, she does so with sensitivity, appreciating the weight of the history and legacy she represents. Yet, she is aware that others close to the subject matter may feel differently about how that history is interpreted.
Despite the controversy surrounding the series, Gummer’s commitment to authenticity remains steadfast. She aims not only to embody Caroline Kennedy’s style but also to honour her spirit. The actress acknowledges that capturing the essence of such a public figure requires a nuanced approach, one that respects the intricacies of Kennedy’s life.
In Love Story, viewers are invited to witness both the highs and lows of a love story that has captivated the public imagination for decades. As Grace Gummer steps into the shoes of Caroline Kennedy, the anticipation builds regarding how the series will depict this tragic yet profound narrative. The challenge lies in balancing dramatic storytelling with respectful homage, a task Gummer appears ready to undertake, committed to a portrayal that does justice to an extraordinary legacy.