Netflix Greenlights 'Kennedy': An American Take on 'The Crown'
In a move that's sure to captivate history buffs and drama enthusiasts alike, Netflix has officially ordered a new limited series titled Kennedy, focusing on one of America's most iconic and tragic political dynasties. Billed as an American counterpart to the streamer's acclaimed royal saga The Crown, the show promises to delve into the ambition, scandals, triumphs, and heartbreaks that defined the Kennedy family across decades.
A Star-Studded Portrayal of the Patriarch
At the helm of this ambitious project is Academy Award-nominated actor Michael Fassbender, who has been cast as Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., the formidable patriarch who built the family's fortune and political influence. Known for his intense performances in films like 12 Years a Slave and Steve Jobs, Fassbender is expected to bring depth to the role of the shrewd businessman and diplomat whose decisions shaped the destinies of his children, including future President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Senator Ted Kennedy.
The series, produced in collaboration with Chernin Entertainment, will span from the 1930s onward, chronicling the family's rise to power amid the backdrop of World War II, the Cold War, and the turbulent 1960s. With an initial order for eight episodes, Kennedy aims to explore not just the public personas but the intimate rivalries, personal tragedies, and unbreakable bonds within the clan.
Echoes of 'The Crown' in American Politics
Drawing parallels to The Crown, which has chronicled the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the British monarchy over six seasons, Kennedy is being positioned as its transatlantic sibling. While The Crown examined the intricacies of royal duty and personal sacrifice, this new series will tackle similar themes through the lens of American democracy, wealth, and celebrity. The Kennedy family, often referred to as "America's royalty," provides fertile ground for such a narrative, complete with assassinations, affairs, and political intrigue that have fascinated the public for generations.
Netflix's decision to adapt this story comes at a time when prestige historical dramas are thriving on the platform. Shows like The Crown have not only garnered critical acclaim but also sparked global conversations about history and power. By shifting the focus to the Kennedys, the streamer is tapping into a uniquely American mythos—one that blends glamour with profound loss.
What to Expect from the Series
Details on additional casting, the creative team, and a release date remain under wraps, but early buzz suggests a high-production-value affair with meticulous attention to historical accuracy. Fassbender's involvement alone is a major draw; his ability to portray complex, driven figures could make Joseph Kennedy Sr. a character as compelling as Peter Morgan's depictions of British royals in The Crown.
The Kennedy legacy is rife with material: from Joe's controversial ambassadorship to the UK during WWII, to the presidential campaign of JFK, the civil rights efforts of RFK, and the Chappaquiddick scandal involving Ted. Tragedies like the assassinations of JFK and RFK, as well as the plane crash that killed JFK Jr., add layers of poignancy that could make Kennedy a must-watch.
As Netflix continues to expand its slate of biographical and historical content, Kennedy stands out as a bold endeavor to humanize a family that's often been mythologized. Whether it will live up to the legacy of The Crown remains to be seen, but with Fassbender leading the charge, the series is already generating award-worthy anticipation.