Kerry Kennedy, the daughter of Ethel and Robert F. Kennedy, has recently voiced her opinions regarding the portrayal of her family in the popular series “Love Story” by Ryan Murphy. Although she has not seen the show, she is aware of some inaccuracies, particularly concerning her mother’s character.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Kerry, aged 67, highlighted a specific scene in the series that she believes misrepresents Ethel Kennedy. This scene depicts Carolyn Bessette, played by Sarah Pidgeon, missing breakfast at the family’s renowned Hyannis Port residence due to a requirement to sign up for meals. Kerry vehemently dismissed this portrayal, emphasising that her mother would never have denied anyone a meal based on such a criteria.
“There’s no sign-up,” Kerry stated firmly. She recounted how her mother was known for her warm hospitality, often urging guests to eat regardless of whether they had previously dined. “She’s all about, ‘Come in, come in. Let me get you some food. You’ve already eaten? Let me get you some cake,'” Kerry explained, reflecting on Ethel’s character.
In the episode’s portrayal, Ethel, as played by actress Jessica Harper, delivers a chilling response to Carolyn regarding her missed breakfast. This dramatic interpretation stands in stark contrast to Kerry’s memories, who insists her mother’s approach to hospitality was relaxed and accommodating. She described how Ethel would readily welcome unexpected guests, often expanding meal preparations to accommodate larger crowds on short notice without complaint.
Kerry’s perspectives on “Love Story” also extend beyond the breakfast scene. She revealed that she typically avoids watching series that dramatise her family’s history. “I don’t like watching TV shows about our family because they always irritate me,” she remarked. “They don’t get the people right; they don’t get the accents right.” Despite her criticisms, Kerry acknowledged that the series has the potential to garner sympathy towards her family, suggesting that its overall impact may still be positive.
Kerry wishes for the public’s understanding of Ethel to transcend theatrical portrayals. She highlights her mother as a formidable figure whose resilience in the face of adversity shaped her legacy. Ethel was pregnant with her youngest child, Rory, when her husband, Robert F. Kennedy, was assassinated in 1968, just five years after his brother, President John F. Kennedy, was also killed. In the wake of these tragedies, Ethel’s tenacity remained steadfast.
“Turning suffering into strength became her healing,” Kerry wrote in her upcoming book, “Ethel Kennedy: The Extraordinary Life and Bold Legacy.” This memoir, set to be released on 13 October, delves into her mother’s life and legacy. Kerry reflects on how Ethel’s dedication to her eleven children motivated her to keep moving forward despite personal loss.
“She had a lot to live for,” Kerry added, stressing her mother’s commitment to being there for her children. “She never described herself as a victim at all.” This attitude, Kerry believes, is crucial to understanding the true essence and influence of her mother, showcasing Ethel’s role as both a nurturing parent and an activist.
Kerry has expressed hope that her book will offer a deeper insight into Ethel’s life, moving beyond the simplified narratives often depicted in popular media. Her aim is to provide readers with a more authentic view of her mother, illuminated by the strength and grace that defined her character.
In summary, while “Love Story” has succeeded in bringing attention to the Kennedy family, Kerry Kennedy’s reflections serve as a reminder of the complexities of her mother’s legacy. Through her forthcoming book, she seeks to preserve the memory of Ethel Kennedy as a strong, loving matriarch who played an essential role in the lives of her family during tumultuous times.