New biography sheds light on the rocky beginnings of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s relationship with Carolyn Bessette. Authored by Elizabeth Beller, “Once Upon A Time: The Captivating Life Of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy,” the book details an intense episode early in their courtship involving a venomous letter.
During a 1992 dinner at El Teddy’s in Tribeca, JFK Jr. confronted Bessette with an anonymous letter branding her as a fame-seeker and party-goer. According to an excerpt published by the Wall Street Journal, JFK Jr. threw the letter at Bessette and abruptly left the restaurant, leaving her shocked and alone.
The identity of the letter’s author remains unknown, but it reportedly came from a trusted confidant of JFK Jr., whose harsh opinion was taken seriously. Bessette was taken aback, especially since she had recently admired JFK Jr. for being down to earth. After reading the letter, she quietly folded it, placed it in her purse, and exited the restaurant.
The couple, who met at Calvin Klein’s flagship store in Manhattan where Bessette worked, quickly became a high-profile pair. Bessette’s stylish and bold fashion choices captivated public attention, adding to the Kennedy mystique.
Despite their glamorous public image, friends revealed that the couple faced serious marital issues and speculated that their marriage might not have lasted if not for their tragic deaths in a 1999 plane crash, which also claimed the life of Bessette’s sister, Lauren.
The biography also portrays Bessette’s compassionate side, noting an instance where she urged JFK Jr. to call Prince William and Prince Harry after Princess Diana’s death, though he declined due to the highly publicized nature of Diana’s passing.
Bessette’s premature death has only heightened her enigmatic legacy. Recently, she was dubbed a “ghost influencer” by fashion brands, with her 1990s minimalist style influencing contemporary collections. Brands like Peter Do, Dior, and Fendi have revived her iconic looks, such as the white button-down shirt paired with a floor-length black skirt she wore shortly before her death.
The continued fascination with Bessette’s style underscores her lasting impact on fashion. Campaigns, such as those by the clothing company Sporty & Rich, have recreated her and JFK Jr.’s iconic paparazzi moments, further cementing her status as a timeless fashion icon.