Daryl Hannah Slams JFK Jr. Series Depiction

The new Disney+ series "Love Story," exploring the romance between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, has drawn sharp criticism from actress Daryl Hannah, who claims her portrayal is highly inaccurate.

Hannah, depicted in the show as a needy and unappealing figure during her relationship with JFK Jr. prior to his romance with Bessette, has labeled her characterization as "irritating, self-absorbed, whiny and inappropriate." She asserted in a New York Times editorial that the series' depiction is "not even a remotely accurate representation of my life, my conduct or my relationship with John."

The actress stated that the "appalling" portrayal has resulted in "real-life consequences," including receiving hostile and threatening messages from viewers who believed the on-screen events were factual. This public critique has garnered support from figures such as Jamie Lee Curtis and Rosanna Arquette, as well as members of the Kennedy family, including JFK Jr.'s cousin Douglas Kennedy.

Douglas Kennedy described the show as a "misrepresentation" and "really awful," emphasizing that Hannah was a beloved figure. He added that portraying her otherwise is an injustice. Friends of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette have also voiced support for Hannah, noting the inappropriateness of depicting those no longer able to defend themselves.

While the series creators defended their artistic choices, with one producer calling Hannah a necessary narrative "adversary," the controversy continues. Legal action has been suggested by critics, while others question whether speaking out will only amplify the show's reach. The series began airing in a year that would have marked the 30th wedding anniversary of John and Carolyn, who tragically died in a plane crash on July 16, 1999.