Sarah Pidgeon, the rising star of FX and Hulu’s acclaimed series *Love Story*, has recently achieved a significant milestone in her career by receiving her first Emmy nomination. Her portrayal of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, the iconic wife of John F. Kennedy Jr., has captivated audiences and earned her a nod for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Pidgeon reflected on the essence of the character she embodies. Bessette-Kennedy, a figure praised for her strong opinions and fierce loyalty, is someone that Pidgeon found deeply inspiring. “She knew herself so well and spoke up for injustices when they occurred,” Pidgeon commented, highlighting the remarkable qualities that made Bessette-Kennedy a beloved figure even decades later. These attributes are ones Pidgeon aspires to emulate in her own life.
As the actress transitions into her thirties—having turned 30 last month—she views this new chapter as a time of growth and introspection. “I’m an all-or-nothing thinker, and I love a clean slate. It feels like a real next chapter of adult life,” she noted, embracing both her age and new opportunities that come with it. Pidgeon’s nuanced performance has not only garnered praise from critics but has also resonated with a new generation, reviving interest in the late ’90s fashion icon.
One pivotal moment in *Love Story* that stands out for Pidgeon is in episode seven, where Bessette-Kennedy grapples with the pressures of fame. “Exploring Bessette-Kennedy’s relationship with the public spotlight was vital,” she said. The actress made it her mission to give voice to the complex emotions surrounding this aspect of Bessette-Kennedy’s life. “I felt proud to navigate that and to be trusted with her story,” she expressed.
Since *Love Story* debuted in February, Pidgeon has experienced a surge in public attention. Nevertheless, she remains grounded, thanks to her close-knit relationship with her family. Her mother, who has been an unwavering pillar of support, will accompany her to the upcoming Emmys, which Pidgeon eagerly anticipates. “I can’t wait to get dressed up and hang with her,” the actress shared, emphasizing the joy of sharing such moments with family. “It’s like, ‘Can you believe this? What is going on?’”
As the spotlight shines more brightly on her, Pidgeon has also become a fashion icon in her own right, reminiscent of her character. With much anticipation surrounding her outfit for the Emmy Awards, she remarked, “Carolyn had such an imprint not only on me but on the world in the ‘90s and onward.” Regardless of her attire, she feels a strong connection to Bessette-Kennedy, crediting her legacy for the opportunities currently unfolding in her career.
In the lead-up to the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, hosted by Mariska Hargitay, Pidgeon’s presence on the red carpet will be highly anticipated. The ceremony is set to be broadcast live on NBC and Peacock on September 14 at 8 p.m. ET. For fans eager to experience Pidgeon’s acclaimed performance, *Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette* is available for streaming on Hulu.
As Sarah Pidgeon steps into this new phase of her career, she carries with her not only the lessons learned from embodying a complex character but also the support and love from her family. This journey, marked by ambition and introspection, promises to resonate well beyond the confines of her recent success. Ultimately, Pidgeon’s ability to connect with both her audience and her past highlights the enduring legacy of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy—a reminder that powerful stories never truly fade away.