The definitive biography of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr’s mythologized relationship is back on bestseller lists following FX’s new series “Love Story.” The Ryan Murphy-produced show, which premiered last week, is inspired by the Elizabeth Beller book, which came out in 2024.
The book traces Bessette’s life from her upbringing in New York and Connecticut to her early ambitions: she graduated from Boston University in 1988 and worked her way up at Calvin Klein, from retail associate to executive in VIP sales and publicity. To build this portrait, Beller interviewed a wide range of individuals who knew Bessette before she entered the Kennedy limelight — including family members, childhood friends, roommates, teachers and professional colleagues. The book also weaves in perspectives from people who witnessed her relationship with JFK Jr. and contextualizes how that partnership reshaped her life.
A major theme of the biography, like the inspired series, is how relentless media scrutiny affected Bessette. Once she began dating Kennedy — a man perceived by many as “America’s prince” — paparazzi and tabloids pounced. Beller details how the press often mischaracterized her as aloof, cold, or superficial, and in some cases even blamed her for personal tragedies.
To illustrate her humanity, the biography includes intimate stories that humanize Bessette: friends recall her infectious laugh, her quick wit, and her capacity for real warmth long before the spotlight found her. There are recollections of early work life in fashion, moments with friends and family, and reflections on how her love with JFK Jr. evolved in private even as it became a media spectacle.
Stream “Love Story” on Hulu below, and purchase the book on which it’s inspired here.
Source: variety.com
