The Ryan Murphy American Love Story controversy is making headlines months before the FX show premieres. Production has scarcely begun in New York City, but casting decisions, styling, and feedback from key figures—including the Kennedy family—have stirred debate since mid-June.
Ryan Murphy, acclaimed for dramatic series like Glee, Pose, and The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, ignited debate with his latest work, American Love Story. The show will depict the romance and tragedy of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr., and is slated to arrive during Valentine’s week 2026. Even in pre-production, this series has become a focal point for polarized opinions both within fashion circles and among those closely connected to the Kennedy legacy.
Wardrobe Choices and Fashion Backlash
Criticism escalated after Sarah Pidgeon was seen on set in attire that sharp-eyed fans and fashion outlets argued did not match Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s iconic style. Outfits included black Converse sneakers, a silk satin midi skirt, and outerwear that drew comparisons to mainstream fast fashion outlets. These choices prompted a wave of dissatisfaction online and in established fashion publications, making every new sighting a subject of scrutiny.
Ryan Murphy directly addressed attacks on the costumes, offering his defense to the media.
“It’s very interesting that people become so inflammatory.”
—Ryan Murphy, Producer
The debate wasn’t limited to clothing. Brad Johns, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s former colorist, critiqued the authenticity of Pidgeon’s blonde look, telling Vogue it was
“Totally wrong, the opposite of what we were going for.”
Murphy dismissed such concerns by clarifying that Pidgeon is using a wig for the role, attempting to calm doubts over the show‘s commitment to detail.
Attention to Accessories and Props Under the Microscope
Matters heightened when Murphy released behind-the-scenes images on the series’ social media accounts, causing fresh speculation. Critics zoomed in on an image of Pidgeon carrying an Hermès Birkin bag, but the size led to a backlash: devoted fans noted the bag was a Birkin 35, while Carolyn Bessette Kennedy was known for favoring the larger Birkin 40 model. Murphy clarified for the public that authentic accessories are being used, and the 35 was merely a placeholder for camera tests.
Murphy further stressed the production’s investment in accuracy with regards to wardrobe and accessories.
“We have multiple pairs of Manolo black heels and sandals from 1992 to 1999,”
—Ryan Murphy, Producer.
“We have the Manolo boots she wore in black and brown. We have her Prada tall boots. We have her Prada bags. We have the Birkin No. 40 that we have taken to a specialist to scruff it up so it looks identical to the one she would wear half-open on the subway.”
—Ryan Murphy, Producer
Producer Draws Parallels Between the Present and the Past
The fervent response to the casting and styling led Murphy to compare public sentiment now to reactions Carolyn Bessette Kennedy faced in her lifetime, highlighting the repeating cycle of criticism faced by high-profile figures.
“They’re doing to our Carolyn, what they did to the real-life Carolyn. It’s not fair.”
—Ryan Murphy, Producer
Reactions from the Kennedy Family and Public Figures
Beyond online commentary, the Kennedy family’s opinions have started to emerge. Jack Schlossberg, the son of Caroline Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr.’s nephew, has made his stance clear. Fans spotted a post on his Instagram account placing a photo of actor Paul Kelly—set to portray John F. Kennedy Jr.—with the words “See you on set Ryan,” hinting at the family’s close watch over the project and its portrayal of their personal history.
Schlossberg proposed a suggestion in response to ongoing attention, a move reflecting both his disapproval and his hopes for a constructive outcome.
“Hey Ryan — admiration for John is great but maybe consider donating profits to the Kennedy Library thanks.”
—Jack Schlossberg, Law School Graduate
What Controversy Means for the Show’s Future
The ongoing Ryan Murphy American Love Story controversy centers on the series’ depiction of famous figures, attention to detail, and its impact on public memory. With rigorous responses from fashion magazines, vocal Kennedy family members such as Jack Schlossberg and watchdog fans, the show is set for a highly scrutinized debut. Whether Murphy’s efforts at accuracy will shift opinions or if criticisms will intensify remains to be seen, but the debate has firmly put American Love Story—and the challenges of retelling iconic narratives—at the center of television and cultural conversation.
