The role of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy – wife of John F. Kennedy Jr. and a fashion icon of the 1990s – has been tackled by several actresses in film and television. Their portrayals highlight the enduring fascination with this public figure, whose life ended tragically in 1999. This article details who has played the role, and what each actress has said about the experience.
Sarah Pidgeon: The Latest Take On Carolyn
The most recent actress to embody Bessette-Kennedy is Sarah Pidgeon, starring in Ryan Murphy’s upcoming series Love Story. Pidgeon, known for I Know What You Did Last Summer, underwent a physical transformation for the role, lightening her naturally dark hair to match Bessette-Kennedy’s signature blonde look.
The casting generated debate online. Pidgeon herself has acknowledged the pressure, telling People that the backlash only reinforced the public’s attachment to the real Carolyn. She emphasized a sense of responsibility to accurately represent the historical figure, stating, “It’s not just on your own inspiration…there’s a sense of responsibility to approach it with as much truth and integrity as one can.”
Portia de Rossi: The First Actress To Play Carolyn
Before Pidgeon, Portia de Rossi was the first to portray Bessette-Kennedy in the 2003 TV movie America’s Prince: The John F. Kennedy Jr. Story. Rossi’s experience was unique: she had met Bessette-Kennedy twice in real life at White House events in 1999.
In interviews resurfaced on Reddit, Rossi described Bessette-Kennedy as “so playful and energetic and kind of just very cheeky.” She also admitted feeling protective of the role, expressing frustration at the idea of another actress taking it on. The emotional toll was significant: “It did take a bit of a toll on me…From time to time, we would get a little bit sad. It’s just so bloody tragic.”
The intensity of Rossi’s attachment speaks to how deeply the tragedy surrounding Bessette-Kennedy’s death resonated, even for those who knew her.
The repeated casting of actresses to play Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy underscores how her image and story continue to captivate audiences, nearly three decades after her death. Each portrayal reflects a blend of historical accuracy, artistic interpretation, and the emotional weight of representing a beloved yet tragic figure.
