The Political Scene | The New Yorker From Critics at Large: Why We Cling to the Kennedy Myth
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Mar 20, 2026 A lively discussion about a TV retelling of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette that highlights 1990s New York style and costume detail. They debate how fashion-driven storytelling turns political legacy into aesthetic nostalgia. Conversations trace the Kennedy myth through Jackie, dynasty building, conspiracy culture, and the risks of charisma outweighing civic substance.
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Show Treats Kennedys As Aesthetic Not Political
- Love Story foregrounds 1990s style and aesthetics over political complexity to the point that the relationship becomes a visual lookbook.
- Vinson Cunningham and Alexandra Schwartz argue the show strips Kennedys' political power into pure fashion nostalgia.
How The Couple Became Known Through Tragedy
- Alexandra Schwartz recounts learning of JFK Jr. and Carolyn only after their 1999 deaths during summer-camp visiting day gossip.
- Naomi Fry remembers watching their deaths live in Israel and calling it part of the 'Kennedy curse.'
Visual Album Works Though Love Story Falls Short
- Critics say Love Story succeeds as a stylistic recreation of wealthy 1990s New York but fails as a persuasive romantic drama.
- Naomi Fry calls it a convincing 'visual album' while Alexandra Schwartz finds the love story itself unconvincing.
