Netflix Enlists Michael Fassbender for Kennedy Family Version of ‘The Crown’

by

Netflix is adding a new drama series called Kennedy to its growing list of shows. The series, created in partnership with Chernin Entertainment, will explore the lives of the Kennedy family, drawing from Fredrik Logevall’s book JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956. The show will cover the family’s successes and hardships, and how different generations shaped this powerful American dynasty.

Netflix announced that Michael Fassbender, known for his roles in the thrillers *The Agency* and *Black Bag*, will portray Joe Kennedy Sr. in a new series about the Kennedy family. The show is planned as an American take on the popular historical drama *The Crown*, charting the family’s ascent to political prominence over several seasons. Following the success of *The Crown*, it’s a natural step for Netflix to create a similar series focused on an American dynasty.

Sam Shaw, who has worked on popular shows like *Manhattan*, *Castle Rock*, and *Masters of Sex*, will lead *Kennedy* as showrunner and executive producer. He’ll be joined by executive producers Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Kaitlin Dahill from Chernin Entertainment, Eric Roth, Fredrik Logevall, Lila Byock, Anya Epstein, Dustin Thomason, and Thomas Vinterberg, along with Anna O’Malley. Vinterberg, known for directing films like *Festen*, *The Hunt*, and *Another Round*, will also direct the series.

‘Kennedy’ Will Explore the Saga of the Family in “a World of Transition”


Focus Features

I recently got a peek at what Netflix has planned with their new series, *Kennedy*, and it sounds fascinating. The show promises to pull back the curtain on the Kennedy family – not just the politics, but the personal stuff: their loves, their feuds, and the heartbreaking moments that defined them. Think *The Crown*, but focused on America’s most famous family. The first season kicks things off in the 1930s, showing how Joe and Rose Kennedy built their family and raised their nine kids. A big focus will be on Jack, the second son, and his struggle to step out of the shadow of his seemingly perfect older brother. It sounds like a really deep dive into the making of a dynasty and how they shaped the world we know today.

Sam Shaw shared his enthusiasm for the new series, noting that the Kennedy family’s compelling story remains important and relatable even now.

The Kennedy family’s story has become like an American legend – a mix of high drama and soap opera. But Fredrik Logevall’s insightful new biography goes beyond the myth, showing the real struggles and ambitions of the people behind it. It offers valuable insights not just into the Kennedys, but also into how we arrived at the present moment and what the future might hold. I’m excited to bring this story of family and a changing world to life with Eric Roth, Thomas Vinterberg, and our talented team, especially now when history feels so relevant.

As a total movie fanatic, I’m already hyped about *Kennedy* – it’s definitely going to be a big deal for the streaming service. Michael Fassbender is already signed on for the first season, which is fantastic, and I’m really curious to see who else they cast to play the Kennedy family. No word yet on when filming will start or when we can actually watch it, but I’m keeping my eyes peeled!

Read More

2025-10-20 22:57