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As I watched the latest installment of Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, a recurring thought lingered: “Who are we to judge?” This poignant series continues to unravel the complexities of a high-profile relationship under the constant scrutiny of public eyes.
**Spoiler alert for Episode 5, “Battery Park,” available now on Hulu**
In the newest episode of this captivating historical drama from FX and Hulu, we witness Carolyn (played by Sarah Pidgeon) and John (portrayed by Paul Anthony Kelly) navigating the challenges of their now-public romance. Following the explosive conclusion of Episode 4, “I Love You,” where Carolyn’s image was plastered across tabloid covers, the couple finds themselves thrust into the relentless spotlight. John decides to take Carolyn to Hyannis Port to meet the Kennedy clan, an introduction that feels akin to entering a lion’s den.
What unfolds is a series of scenes that can only be described as some of the most nerve-wracking television moments of 2026. Carolyn’s first experience with the Kennedy family is fraught with tension as she awkwardly navigates missed breakfasts and social blunders, all while being subjected to probing questions on current affairs at the dinner table. It’s a portrayal of discomfort that is both gripping and difficult to watch.
The drama escalates with a rejected proposal attempt and a public statement that inadvertently reveals insights into their private relationship. As Carolyn’s celebrity status continues to rise, the pressure mounts, creating a volatile situation that seems ready to ignite at any moment.
Which is why, when the two find themselves engaged in a massive fight in the middle of Battery Park, it feels like something that we should look away from. Alas, as this Ryan Murphy-produced series is inspired by the very real, tragic love story of the titular characters, we know that is far from what happens. This is how they bring about the real-life fight between Carolyn and John, circa February 1996.
During the scene, the pair do everything from scream at each other, exchange blows, and cruelly toss insults at the other person, all while a photographer stands off from a distance and snaps away shot after shot. You would think in New York, a place that is known for giving people the luxury of anonymity and not attracting eyeballs, no matter how much of a spectacle is being caused, they would be able to have an argument like any of us. Not the case.
Sadly, the explosive argument and the photos that came from it did exactly what the papers and tabloids wanted them to do: sell. And the worst part? We bought it. In fact, we couldn’t get enough of it. In the same way that people were desperate and hungry for more photos of Princess Diana, all the way up to her final moments in Paris, the insatiable taste extended to the American royalty that is the Kennedy clan.
I understand the hunger for more drama, more intrigue, more of anything that will spice up the monotony of our daily lives, but watching these two people — mere human beings experiencing a relationship low that all of us have gone through at one point or another — have their entire lives dissected for the entertainment of the masses feels inhumane.
It’s part of the reason that I came into the series, opting to watch with a critical eye. Anytime that real people, especially ones who are not around to give their own side of things, are involved, I think it’s only fair that we examine it under a microscope. It’s because of that sharp eye that I look at this scene, and I have a hard time watching and feeling like we all aren’t culpable in one way or another.
Hopefully, we can all walk away thinking about how we take part in these things and what they can lead to. I know that it will make me think about it, for sure.
Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr and Carolyn Bessette‘s first five episodes are now streaming on Hulu. New episodes premiere Thursdays at 9 p.m. PT.
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