Actors in 'Kennedy' Series Forego Strong Boston Accents
The forthcoming Netflix drama series "Kennedy," which chronicles the prominent political family's history from 1931 to 1944, will intentionally minimize the distinctive Boston accent often associated with the family. Nick Robinson, portraying Joe Kennedy Jr., explained that the creative team made a conscious decision to adopt a more subdued vocal style. He noted that the accent has evolved over time, transitioning from an upper-class Mid-Atlantic sound to one now more commonly linked with the working class in modern perception. This deliberate choice aims to make the series more accessible to a wider audience.
Laura Donnelly, cast as the family matriarch Rose, recounted that she and Michael Fassbender, who plays Joe Sr., initially prepared to embody the pronounced accents. However, they were later instructed to dial back their approach once on set. Donnelly elaborated that while the aspirational quality of the original accent was acknowledged, the practicalities of a large cast, particularly child actors, necessitated a less intense portrayal. The goal was to achieve a blended sound, allowing the adults to incorporate more distinctive inflections while the younger cast members maintained a more general American pronunciation, creating a cohesive linguistic landscape for the series.
Robinson's preparation for his role involved extensive historical research into Joseph Kennedy Jr., expanding his understanding of the family's legacy. Similarly, Donnelly delved into the life of Rose Kennedy, watching interviews and developing a profound admiration for her resilience and grace in the face of significant challenges. The eight-episode series draws inspiration from Fredrik Logevall's book, "JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956."
The creative decisions made during the production of "Kennedy," particularly regarding the nuanced portrayal of regional accents, highlight a commitment to balancing historical authenticity with artistic interpretation and audience engagement. This approach fosters a deeper connection to the characters and their story, demonstrating that thoughtful artistic choices can enhance a narrative's impact and reach.
