The new FX limited series, Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, is drawing criticism for its portrayal of Daryl Hannah, Kennedy Jr.’s former girlfriend. Although the show aims to depict the complexities of the Kennedy-Bessette relationship under intense public scrutiny, some observers argue it unfairly diminishes Hannah’s character, presenting her as a clingy and unstable figure.
Hannah, a successful actress known for roles in films like Blade Runner and Splash, dated Kennedy Jr. For nearly five years, a relationship that predated his marriage to Bessette. The series, based on Elizabeth Beller’s book Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, depicts Hannah’s presence as a disruptive force, hindering the budding romance between Kennedy Jr. And Bessette. Critics contend this depiction fails to acknowledge Hannah’s established career and independent spirit.
According to reports, Kennedy Jr. And Hannah first met in the 1980s while their families vacationed in Saint Martin. Their connection was reportedly facilitated by Hannah’s stepfather, who had contributed to a presidential campaign of Kennedy’s uncle, Ted Kennedy. The pair reconnected in 1988 at the wedding of Kennedy’s aunt, Lee Radziwill, sparking a relationship that captivated the media.
The series portrays Hannah as repeatedly attempting to rekindle the relationship with Kennedy Jr., even after he began dating Bessette, particularly following the 1994 death of his mother, Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Sources suggest Jackie Kennedy Onassis reportedly disapproved of Hannah. The show’s depiction of Hannah has been described as a caricature, portraying her as “high, hysterical, and painfully obvious” in her attempts to win back Kennedy Jr.’s affection.
Prior to his relationship with Bessette, Kennedy Jr. Also dated other prominent figures, including Brooke Shields and Cindy Crawford, as well as Sarah Jessica Parker, according to reports. He met Jenny Christian in high school and dated her from 1978 to 1979, and was also involved with Sally Munro for six years, beginning in 1979 while both attended Brown University. Kennedy Jr. Married Bessette in 1996, and the couple tragically died in a plane crash off the coast of Massachusetts in 1999.
The limited series, which premiered on February 12, 2026, has sparked renewed interest in the lives of Kennedy Jr. And Bessette, as well as those who were part of their inner circle. The show’s portrayal of Hannah, however, continues to draw debate, with some arguing it unfairly diminishes a complex and accomplished woman.
