[This story contains MAJOR spoilers from the Love Story finale, “Search and Recovery”.]
After seven weeks of ’90s nostalgia and an intimate look at America’s ultimate power couple — John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy — Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette concluded Thursday night.
And it was an emotional watch, to say the least.
Created by Connor Hines and executive produced by Ryan Murphy, the anthology series picks up shortly after last week’s episode, when John (Paul Anthony Kelly) left for the night. Set during the final weekend of their lives, the episode reveals that he never came back. Still, the two attempt to repair their relationship, visiting a marriage counselor who suggests they spend time apart.
After leaving the session, they head to a dive bar and reminisce about the passion and excitement of their early relationship — before it was strained by relentless media attention, and before Carolyn, in particular, struggled to adjust to such a drastic change in lifestyle.
“If only we knew then how good we had it,” Carolyn tells John.
Though they try to stay apart, neither can follow through. Both turn to family for support — John confides in his sister Caroline (Grace Gummer), while Carolyn leans on her sister Lauren Bessette — and each is encouraged to fight for the relationship.
They do. Carolyn even makes a rare public appearance to support John at an event for George magazine. The two also recreate their first date at an Indian restaurant, where Carolyn finally explains what her sign means, which she referenced in the pilot: “Please handle with care, not as tough as she looks.” In a rare moment of vulnerability, she opens up about why she kept her guard up early on — and John realizes she is his priority.
About 20 minutes into the episode, the timeline shifts to July 16, 1999 — the day John, Carolyn, and Lauren died. Carolyn initially hesitates to attend the wedding in Martha’s Vineyard, but ultimately chooses to go to be with him.
In the final moments, the three are shown on the plane. As the weather worsens, John’s expression says it all — a quiet, haunting suggestion that he understands what’s coming.
More to come.
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Check out all of The Hollywood Reporter‘s Love Story coverage here.
