Sarah Pidgeon Reacts to Costar Paul Anthony Kelly’s Recognition

Sarah Pidgeon and Paul Anthony Kelly starred as Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr. in the FX series Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette. Pidgeon shared her reaction to Kelly being named the centerfold star of PEOPLE’s 2026 Sexiest Man Alive issue.

Pidgeon expressed her admiration for Kelly during the Time100 Next Gala in New York City on October 29, saying, “Oh my gosh. He looked great.” She described him as “such an amazing guy.” When asked if she was aware of his recognition beforehand, Pidgeon revealed, “No, he kept it a secret,” noting that he had known since August but told no one.

The FX series Love Story, executive produced by Ryan Murphy, premiered in February. It explored the relationship between Bessette-Kennedy and Kennedy Jr., with Pidgeon and Kelly in the lead roles. This marked Kelly’s first acting experience. Following this role, Kelly also starred in American Horror Story: 13 and will appear in the 2027 film The Housemaid’s Secret, a sequel to the 2025 movie The Housemaid.

Kelly, reflecting on his experience, stated during his centerfold photo shoot that the series’ success was a significant gift. He mentioned that 2026 brought many changes to his professional and personal life, expressing a strong affinity for his work. Kelly said, “I love this job. I’ve never felt more alive and more in a place where I truly feel like I belong.”

Sarah Pidgeon and Paul Anthony Kelly’s work in Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette continues to stream on FX and FX on Hulu. The show remains a significant point in their careers.