Netflix has unveiled a new historical drama series titled “Kennedy,” featuring Michael Fassbender as family patriarch Joe Kennedy Sr., which delves into the untold stories of America’s most famous political dynasty.
The series is inspired by Fredrik Logevall’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biography “JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956.” It aims to chronicle the Kennedy family’s journey from the 1930s onward, focusing on their personal and political evolution. This adaptation promises to bring a fresh perspective to a well-known narrative, highlighting the human elements behind the public personas. By drawing on extensive historical research, the show seeks to offer a nuanced portrayal that goes beyond the surface-level myths.
Michael Fassbender, a two-time Oscar nominee, leads the cast as Joe Kennedy Sr., the ambitious father who laid the groundwork for the family’s prominence. Additional casting details are yet to be announced, but the production boasts a strong creative team, including showrunner Sam Shaw, known for his work on “Manhattan” and “Masters of Sex.” Director Thomas Vinterberg, acclaimed for films like “The Hunt” and “Another Round,” will helm the first and last episodes, ensuring a cohesive vision throughout the series.
“Kennedy” will explore the intricate dynamics within the family, particularly the rivalry between the children, such as the rebellious Jack Kennedy and his older brother Joe Jr. The series begins long before John F. Kennedy’s presidency, setting the stage in the pre-World War II era. It will cover key events that shaped the family’s rise, including Joe Sr.’s business ventures, political aspirations, and the complex relationships that defined their legacy. This focus on personal struggles aims to make the historical figures relatable to modern audiences.
The Kennedy family is often shrouded in myth and tragedy, from the assassinations of JFK and Robert Kennedy to the plane crash that killed JFK Jr. The series seeks to humanize these figures, moving beyond the headlines to show their struggles and triumphs. This approach aligns with Logevall’s book, which provides a detailed, empathetic look at their lives, challenging the notion of a “Kennedy curse” and instead emphasizing their resilience and impact on American society.
In a statement, showrunner Sam Shaw described the Kennedy story as “the closest we have to American mythology,” comparing it to a blend of Shakespeare and daytime soap operas. He emphasized that the series will reveal the human strivings behind the legend, making it relevant to contemporary audiences by drawing parallels to current societal issues. This reflective angle is expected to resonate with viewers interested in how history informs the present.
The production is set for eight episodes and is a collaboration between Netflix and Chernin Entertainment. Executive producers include Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, and Eric Roth, among others, bringing a wealth of experience to the project. While a specific release date has not been disclosed, the announcement has generated significant interest among history buffs and streaming audiences alike, positioning it as a potential standout in Netflix’s original content lineup.
As Netflix continues to expand its portfolio of high-quality dramas, “Kennedy” represents a significant investment in storytelling that blends entertainment with education. The series is expected to attract viewers with its star power and compelling narrative, potentially sparking renewed discussion about the Kennedy legacy and its enduring influence on modern American culture and politics.