Netflix has officially commissioned an eight-episode series titled 'Kennedy,' focusing on the rise of America's iconic political dynasty. Michael Fassbender will portray Joe Kennedy Sr., the patriarch, alongside a cast depicting his family members. The show draws from a biography of John F. Kennedy and promises to explore their intimate lives and tragedies.
The upcoming Netflix series 'Kennedy' is based on Fredrik Logevall’s book JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956. It delves into the Kennedy family's story, beginning in the 1930s with the ascent of Joe and Rose Kennedy and their nine children. The official synopsis states: “'Kennedy' reveals the intimate lives, loves, rivalries and tragedies that shaped the most iconic dynasty in modern history, and helped create the world we live in today.”
The first season highlights the family dynamics, including second son Jack's struggles under the shadow of his older brother, the golden boy. This project, first reported in development by Variety nearly two years ago, is positioned as an American equivalent to The Crown, chronicling the Kennedys' political rise across potential multiple seasons.
Casting announcements include Michael Fassbender as Joe Kennedy Sr., Laura Donnelly as his wife Rose Kennedy, Nick Robinson as Joe Kennedy Jr., Joshuah Melnick as Jack Kennedy, and Lydia Peckham as Rosemary Kennedy. Fassbender, acclaimed for roles in films like 12 Years a Slave and Steve Jobs—both earning him Oscar nominations—as well as Inglourious Basterds, Shame, Frank, and franchises such as Alien and X-Men, brings his dramatic prowess to the role.
The series pickup was confirmed by Netflix following earlier reports from Deadline last year. Viewers can anticipate episodes unpacking the family's improbable journey and lasting impact on modern history.
