The entertainment world is buzzing with controversy as Ryan Murphy, the prolific producer behind hits like Glee and American Horror Story, finds himself at the center of a heated debate. His upcoming anthology series, American Love Story, which focuses on the romance and tragic deaths of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, has sparked outrage from a key member of the Kennedy family. Jack Schlossberg, JFK Jr.’s nephew, recently took to social media to slam the project, calling it “grotesque” and claiming the family was never consulted. This public clash has ignited discussions about ethics in storytelling, privacy, and the commercialization of personal tragedies. Let’s dive into the latest developments surrounding Ryan Murphy and this contentious project as of June 19, 2025.
Jack Schlossberg’s Public Criticism of Ryan Murphy
Jack Schlossberg, the 32-year-old son of Caroline Kennedy, didn’t hold back when he voiced his concerns about American Love Story. In a now-deleted Instagram Story, he accused Ryan Murphy of exploiting his family’s legacy for profit. Schlossberg emphasized that while he appreciates admiration for his uncle, he finds the series’ approach distasteful. He pointed out that New York law doesn’t protect the privacy rights of public figures after death, leaving the Kennedy family with little legal recourse to control how JFK Jr.’s story is portrayed. Schlossberg also urged Murphy to donate profits from the series to the John F. Kennedy Library, a suggestion that gained traction among fans and critics alike.
This isn’t the first time Schlossberg has spoken out. Earlier this month, he commented on Murphy’s Instagram post showcasing the series’ first-look images, writing, “HEY RYAN — admiration for John is great but maybe consider DONATING PROFITS TO THE KENNEDY LIBRARY thanks.” Murphy responded quickly, promising to do so, but the exchange has left many wondering whether this commitment will materialize. Schlossberg’s outspokenness highlights a broader tension between artistic freedom and respecting the wishes of those connected to real-life stories.
Ryan Murphy’s Vision for American Love Story
Ryan Murphy has built a reputation for tackling high-profile, often controversial stories, and American Love Story is no exception. The series, set to premiere on FX and Hulu in February 2026, stars Paul Kelly as JFK Jr. and Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. The cast also includes Naomi Watts as Jackie Kennedy and Grace Gummer as Caroline Kennedy. Murphy has described the project as a romantic yet tragic exploration of one of America’s most iconic couples, whose lives ended in a 1999 plane crash alongside Carolyn’s sister, Lauren Bessette.
However, the series has faced scrutiny beyond Schlossberg’s comments. Fans and fashion experts have criticized the costume design, particularly Pidgeon’s portrayal of Bessette-Kennedy. Carolyn’s former hair colorist, Brad Johns, publicly stated that the hair color chosen for Pidgeon was “totally wrong,” sparking debates about authenticity. Some have also taken issue with the wardrobe, noting that Bessette-Kennedy’s iconic style—marked by tailored coats and her signature Hermès Birkin bag—was poorly represented in early images. Murphy has defended his team, revealing that they consulted a 10-person style advisory board and even acquired some of Bessette-Kennedy’s original clothing, including a replica of her 1996 wedding dress.
- Jack Schlossberg, JFK Jr.’s nephew, called Ryan Murphy’s American Love Story “grotesque” for profiting off his family’s tragedy.
- Schlossberg urged Murphy to donate profits to the Kennedy Library, a request Murphy agreed to publicly.
- The series, set for release in February 2026, has faced criticism over costume and casting choices.
- Murphy defends the project, emphasizing efforts to honor the Kennedys’ legacy through detailed research and authentic styling.
The Ethical Debate Surrounding Ryan Murphy’s Project
The controversy surrounding Ryan Murphy’s series raises larger questions about the ethics of dramatizing real-life tragedies. Schlossberg’s claim that the Kennedy family wasn’t consulted underscores a common issue in biographical projects: balancing creative storytelling with respect for those involved. Many fans have echoed Schlossberg’s sentiments, arguing that the series risks turning a deeply personal loss into “tabloid fodder.” Others, however, are excited about the project, praising Murphy’s ability to bring complex stories to life with emotional depth.
Murphy’s track record adds fuel to the debate. Known for pushing boundaries, he’s no stranger to criticism. His previous projects, like American Crime Story, have been lauded for their gripping narratives but also scrutinized for sensationalizing real events. With American Love Story, Murphy walks a fine line between celebrating a cultural icon and exploiting a family’s grief. The fact that Schlossberg, a vocal and charismatic figure on social media, has taken such a public stance only amplifies the scrutiny.
Public and Industry Reactions to the Controversy
The public response to Schlossberg’s comments has been mixed. On platforms like Instagram and X, some users have rallied behind him, agreeing that the Kennedy family deserves a say in how their story is told. Others argue that public figures like JFK Jr. are fair game for dramatization, especially given the couple’s high-profile status during their lifetime. Industry insiders have also weighed in, with some praising Murphy’s bold casting choices—such as newcomer Paul Kelly—while others question whether the series can authentically capture the Kennedys’ legacy.
Adding to the drama, Murphy has faced additional criticism over the series’ visual accuracy. Fashion enthusiasts have been particularly vocal, pointing out discrepancies in the costumes and styling. Despite these critiques, Murphy remains defiant, insisting that his team has gone to great lengths to honor Bessette-Kennedy’s fashion legacy. The controversy has only heightened anticipation for the series, with fans eager to see whether it will live up to Murphy’s ambitious vision or fall short of expectations.
What’s Next for Ryan Murphy and the Series?
As American Love Story continues filming in New York, all eyes are on Ryan Murphy to see how he navigates this controversy. Will he follow through on his promise to donate profits to the Kennedy Library? Can the series overcome criticism to deliver a respectful portrayal of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy? With a release date still months away, Murphy has time to address concerns and refine the project. For now, the clash with Schlossberg has only added to the buzz, ensuring that American Love Story will be one of 2026’s most talked-about shows.
Stay updated on this unfolding story by following entertainment news on platforms like Instagram and X, where fans and critics alike are sharing their thoughts. Share your take in the comments below—do you think Ryan Murphy’s series crosses a line, or is it a fair tribute to an iconic couple?