Actress Sarah Pidgeon delves into her experience portraying the enigmatic Carolyn Bessette in FX's drama series "Love Story," shedding light on the intricate process of embodying such a beloved and fashion-forward figure. From navigating initial public scrutiny over her portrayal to collaborating closely with the production team on character aesthetics, Pidgeon offers a candid glimpse into the demands and rewards of bringing Carolyn's story to life. She reflects on the enduring appeal of Bessette's style and personality, the profound support she received from producer Ryan Murphy, and the personal growth she experienced through advocating for her character's legacy. This immersive journey has not only broadened Pidgeon's artistic horizons but also reinforced her commitment to diverse and challenging roles across various entertainment mediums, from television to theater.
Pidgeon's Journey: Crafting an Icon in "Love Story"
In a revealing interview with The Hollywood Reporter, accomplished actress Sarah Pidgeon shared her profound insights into taking on the role of Carolyn Bessette in Ryan Murphy's FX series, "Love Story." The production, which mirrors the "Star Is Born" approach by casting relatively unknown talents, found its John F. Kennedy Jr. in Paul Anthony Kelly after an extensive search involving over a thousand actors. Pidgeon, however, quickly emerged as the frontrunner for Carolyn Bessette, a testament to her undeniable talent and screen presence. Having previously starred in "Tiny Beautiful Things," earned a 2024 Tony nomination for "Stereophonic," and held a significant role in the recent "I Know What You Did Last Summer" sequel, Pidgeon's career trajectory is now soaring, much like Bessette's rise in the fashion world at Calvin Klein. Pidgeon recounts receiving the audition at the end of January 2025, a process that swiftly led to a meeting with Ryan Murphy himself. Despite the intensity of the audition, which Pidgeon humorously admits to having "blacked out" during, she successfully landed the role. A crucial element in her casting was a photoshopped image featuring her with blonde hair, which helped the creators envision her transformation into the iconic blonde Bessette. The series meticulously recreates Bessette's legendary minimalist style, with Pidgeon expressing a particular fondness for a cream pencil skirt ensemble by Yohji Yamamoto. She emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail in the wardrobe, particularly in early episodes, where the team pondered what a younger, pre-fame Carolyn would wear, even incorporating vintage Calvin Klein pieces from the 1990s. Following initial online criticism regarding the portrayal, Pidgeon highlights the collaborative adjustments made to Carolyn's hair and wardrobe. She lauds the expertise of hair colorist Karri Hill and stylist Barry Lee Moe for their pivotal roles in shaping Carolyn's distinct look, describing the experience as her most significant hair transformation to date. Pidgeon also deeply values the unwavering support from Ryan Murphy and the creative team, which allowed her and Paul Anthony Kelly to approach their roles with integrity and self-assurance. She speaks passionately about her admiration for Carolyn's fierce independence and strong sense of self, noting how these qualities resonated with her personally and encouraged her to assert her own voice. The on-screen chemistry between Pidgeon and Paul Anthony Kelly was palpable from the outset, fostered by mutual trust and a genuine friendship that developed over the course of filming. Tackling scenes ranging from the couple's joyous wedding to their tumultuous arguments, Pidgeon acknowledges the inherent challenges of portraying such emotional extremes. She finds particular excitement in delving into the lesser-known aspects of Carolyn's life, especially moments captured on video that reveal her true physicality and emotions outside the public eye. Reflecting on the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of Carolyn, John F. Kennedy Jr., and Lauren Bessette on July 16, 1999, near Martha's Vineyard, Pidgeon describes filming the opening sequence with a poignant awareness of the impending tragedy. She recalls the set's palpable energy, focused on depicting the profound love that underpinned the couple's relationship, even amidst tension and anxiety. Pidgeon expresses a strong desire to continue working within the diverse and imaginative world of Ryan Murphy's productions, citing her appreciation for his anthologies like "Crime Story" and "American Horror Story," and even humorously suggesting a "Glee" reboot. Having explored television, film, and theater, Pidgeon remains drawn to the collaborative energy of live theater, cherishing the immediate interaction and problem-solving it demands. Looking ahead, she expresses an eagerness to delve into comedic roles, eager to hone her comedic timing and expand her artistic repertoire.
Sarah Pidgeon's thoughtful portrayal of Carolyn Bessette offers a compelling testament to the power of meticulous character development and the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. Her insights into embodying a figure as iconic yet enigmatic as Bessette highlight the intricate balance between historical accuracy and creative interpretation. The unwavering support from Ryan Murphy, coupled with Pidgeon's own dedication to her craft, underscores the importance of a nurturing environment in bringing complex narratives to the screen. This interview serves as a poignant reminder that behind every memorable performance lies a deep commitment to understanding, empathy, and artistic integrity, ultimately enriching the audience's appreciation for both the story and its tellers.