Grace Gummer Brings Nuance to Caroline Kennedy Role in 'Love Story'

The actress says she aimed to capture the essence of the real-life figure rather than do an imitation.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:00am

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Grace Gummer, who plays Caroline Kennedy in the new series 'Love Story', discusses the challenges and nuances of portraying the famous Kennedy sibling. Gummer says she has great admiration for Caroline Kennedy and wanted to do justice to her in the dramatized retelling of the love story between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. The actress explains how Caroline's role as a voice of reason and matriarchal figure evolved over the course of the season, and how she aimed to capture the essence of the real-life Caroline rather than do an imitation.

Why it matters

As a member of America's most famous political dynasty, Caroline Kennedy is a figure of great public interest, but one whose private life has often been shielded from view. Gummer's portrayal in 'Love Story' offers a rare dramatized glimpse into Caroline's relationship with her brother John and sister-in-law Carolyn, shedding light on the complex dynamics within this iconic family.

The details

Gummer says she did extensive research to prepare for the role, wanting to uphold her duty to the real-life Caroline Kennedy. She explains how Caroline's role evolved from a voice of reason to a more complex, flawed character dealing with the tragedy and public scrutiny her family faced. Gummer also notes the personal connection she feels to the story, as her own pharmacy in Manhattan is the same one where Carolyn Bessette is said to have shopped.

  • The new series 'Love Story' premiered in March 2026.

The players

Grace Gummer

An actress who plays the role of Caroline Kennedy in the new series 'Love Story'.

Caroline Kennedy

The daughter of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who has served as a U.S. Ambassador and is known for her philanthropic work.

John F. Kennedy Jr.

The son of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who is portrayed in 'Love Story' as Caroline's younger brother.

Carolyn Bessette

The wife of John F. Kennedy Jr., whose relationship and marriage to the Kennedy scion is the focus of the 'Love Story' series.

Ryan Murphy

An executive producer of the 'Love Story' series.

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What they’re saying

“I bow to her; I say thank you; I let her speak. I have so much admiration and respect for Caroline, and my greatest hope is that I did right by her.”

— Grace Gummer, Actress playing Caroline Kennedy (Town & Country Magazine)

“Caroline is part of the love story, too; that sibling relationship is integral to the show.”

— Grace Gummer, Actress playing Caroline Kennedy (Town & Country Magazine)

“The sibling banter is real. That was important to us.”

— Grace Gummer, Actress playing Caroline Kennedy (Town & Country Magazine)

What’s next

The 'Love Story' series is expected to continue exploring the complex dynamics within the Kennedy family as it dramatizes the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.

The takeaway

Through her nuanced portrayal of Caroline Kennedy, Grace Gummer offers viewers a rare glimpse into the private life of this iconic American figure, shedding light on the challenges of growing up in the public eye and the importance of family bonds, even amidst tragedy and intense scrutiny.