FX’s “American Story” franchise continues to evolve

A new chapter: “American Love Story”

The “American Story” franchise at FX is expanding its horizons once again. Executive producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, who have been collaborating with Ryan Murphy since the debut of “American Crime Story” in 2016, have confirmed that “American Love Story” is moving forward. This new series will delve into the captivating tale of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.

“We’re very much intending to [tell that story],” Jacobson shared in a recent interview.

Simpson added, “We have great scripts on that. We’re trying to figure out when it’ll land. It is a story that really resonates right now. It’s amazing. A lot of younger women are looking to her as sort of a representational icon of a certain period of time that’s really fascinating, and hopefully, we’ll be able to bring that to the screen soon.”

The anticipation builds

The announcement of “American Love Story” was initially made in 2021, alongside another potential installment, “Studio 54: American Crime Story”. This would follow the previous successful series: “People vs. OJ Simpson”, “The Assassination of Gianni Versace”, and “Impeachment”. However, updates on “Studio 54” have been sparse, and its future remains uncertain.

“The reason we can never announce anything, ever again, is because once, Ryan said ‘Studio 54’ and now it’s 10 years later, and in every interview we have, people bring it up. Nothing against you,” Simpson explained. “We develop multiple things and multiple ideas. It’s not that we’re trying to be secretive, we’re seeing what bubbles up and what comes in. We’ve learned if we announce something, it becomes a Wikipedia entry.”

What’s next for “Crime Story”?

While there are several contenders for the fourth installment of “Crime Story”, no definitive decision has been made. The team is currently focused on a new venture: “American Sports Story”. The first installment will explore the life of Aaron Hernandez, with the series debuting its first two episodes on FX on September 17, followed by a weekly rollout.

Personal reflections for enthusiasts

As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the evolution of the “American Story” franchise is nothing short of thrilling. Each installment has brought a unique narrative, blending historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling. The prospect of “American Love Story” is particularly intriguing, given the enigmatic lives of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. Their story is not just a tale of romance but a reflection of a bygone era that continues to captivate the public imagination.

For those who have followed the franchise from its inception, the anticipation of new stories is palpable. The meticulous attention to detail and the ability to humanize larger-than-life figures have been the hallmark of the series. Whether it’s the courtroom drama of “People vs. OJ Simpson” or the tragic glamour of “The Assassination of Gianni Versace”, each series has left an indelible mark on its audience.

In-depth analysis

The decision to focus on John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette in “American Love Story” is a testament to the enduring fascination with the Kennedy family. Their lives, marked by both privilege and tragedy, offer a rich tapestry for storytelling. Carolyn Bessette, in particular, has emerged as a style icon, her understated elegance and tragic end resonating with a new generation.

The challenge for the creators will be to balance the public’s perception with the private realities of their lives. The scripts, as hinted by Simpson, are already promising, and the casting will be crucial in bringing these iconic figures to life.

The future of “American Crime Story”

While the future of “Studio 54: American Crime Story” remains uncertain, the franchise’s ability to pivot and explore new narratives is commendable. The potential stories are endless, and the creators’ willingness to develop multiple ideas ensures that the franchise remains fresh and relevant.

The upcoming “American Sports Story” promises to be another compelling addition. The life of Aaron Hernandez, marked by his rise in the NFL and subsequent fall, offers a complex narrative that delves into themes of fame, mental health, and the pressures of professional sports.

Conclusion

The “American Story” franchise continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, offering audiences a blend of historical accuracy and dramatic flair. As we await the debut of “American Love Story” and the next installment of “American Crime Story”, the anticipation is a testament to the franchise’s enduring appeal. For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, the journey is far from over, and the stories yet to be told promise to be as captivating as ever.

For more information and to watch the trailers, visit the following links: