Paul Anthony Kelly, 'Love Story' Star, Captivates the Internet

The actor's portrayal of JFK Jr. has made him an online sensation.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Paul Anthony Kelly, a 37-year-old model-turned-actor, has become an internet sensation after his performance as John F. Kennedy Jr. in the FX series "Love Story: John F. Kennedy, Jr. & Carolyn Bessette". Kelly, who hails from a small town in Ontario, Canada, has quickly amassed a devoted online following due to his striking resemblance to the late Kennedy scion and his nuanced portrayal of the beloved public figure.

Why it matters

Kennedy Jr. was a cultural icon in the 1990s, and his tragic death alongside his wife Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy sent shockwaves around the world. Kelly's casting as the Kennedy heir in the new series has reignited public fascination with the couple's love story and the enduring legacy of the Kennedy family.

The details

Kelly, who previously worked as a model before transitioning to acting, landed the role of Kennedy Jr. after a decade of auditioning. He told USA TODAY that his "whole intention" in taking on the part was to approach the story with "the utmost integrity, truth, honesty, and care." The actor also revealed the extensive work that went into recreating Kennedy Jr.'s iconic hairstyle, which required "a blowout every day, just a little bit of water and a hairdryer and a lot of brush work."

  • The FX series "Love Story: John F. Kennedy, Jr. & Carolyn Bessette" premiered on February 12, 2026.
  • Kelly and his wife, Syd Widziszewski-Kelly, celebrated their first wedding anniversary in May 2024.

The players

Paul Anthony Kelly

A 37-year-old model-turned-actor who plays John F. Kennedy Jr. in the FX series "Love Story: John F. Kennedy, Jr. & Carolyn Bessette". Kelly hails from the small town of Port McNicoll in Ontario, Canada, and has been auditioning for roles for about a decade.

Sarah Pidgeon

The actress who plays Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in the FX series "Love Story: John F. Kennedy, Jr. & Carolyn Bessette".

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What they’re saying

“I mean, just look at him. He looks so much like JFK Jr.”

— Sarah Pidgeon, Actress (Official podcast for the show)

“My whole intention of telling this dramatic retelling of their story was just to come in with the utmost integrity, truth, honesty, and care.”

— Paul Anthony Kelly (USA TODAY)

What’s next

Little is known about the upcoming DC film "The Brave and the Bold", which will focus on a father-son story revolving around Bruce Wayne and Damian Wayne. Casting for the project has not yet been announced, but social media users are already campaigning for Paul Anthony Kelly to play the role of Batman.

The takeaway

Paul Anthony Kelly's captivating performance as John F. Kennedy Jr. in the FX series "Love Story" has made him an internet sensation, with fans drawn to his striking resemblance to the late public figure and his commitment to portraying the role with integrity. The actor's rising fame has also sparked speculation about his potential casting as the next Batman, further cementing his status as a rising Hollywood heartthrob.