"Dear Mrs. Kennedy" was an excellent episode, with the glaring exception of not just Michael C. Hall, but ALL THREE of the actors portraying Kennedys. None of them looked, acted, or sounded like the great historical persons they were attempting to portray. I was frankly shocked, since up until this episode, "The Crown" has been practically faultless in every way. I can only ask, What were the producers thinking?
27 Reviews
President Kennedy wrong choice
sharon-5466231 August 2019
Great episode but horrible Kennedys
narragansett5527 December 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I enjoyed the episode as a whole especially the Queen's visit to Ghana and her take charge attitude in bucking tradition and dancing with President Nkrumah. I even enjoyed the meeting with the Kennedys except for two things:
1. The actors who portrayed JFK and Jackie were awful. Michael C. Hall being the absolute worst. Jodi Balfour was just okay. Neither of them looked a bit like the Kennedys which was a disappointment since The Crown has taken care to find actors who really look like the people they are portraying.
2. Everything I've ever read or watched concerning Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is contrary to the Crown portraying her acting silly at a party and bad mouthing the Queen. I am guessing that this is quite an embellishment by The Crown writers.
Other than that, the episode, like all the others was well done and very entertaining.
1. The actors who portrayed JFK and Jackie were awful. Michael C. Hall being the absolute worst. Jodi Balfour was just okay. Neither of them looked a bit like the Kennedys which was a disappointment since The Crown has taken care to find actors who really look like the people they are portraying.
2. Everything I've ever read or watched concerning Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is contrary to the Crown portraying her acting silly at a party and bad mouthing the Queen. I am guessing that this is quite an embellishment by The Crown writers.
Other than that, the episode, like all the others was well done and very entertaining.
I look more like JFK than Michael C. Hall does
tonycarr15 July 2019
This was a great episode marred only by the fact that none of the three actors resembled their characters. Indeed why the picked Julian Ovenden -best known for playing Andrew Foyle in Foyle's War - to play Bobby Kennedy is a mystery. I have no idea who Michael C. Hall is but he is the worst of all those I have seen play JFK. They get closest witch Jackie even to the extent of putting her in a variation of the iconic pill box hat.
My big gripe is that being a British show they should get the details right. Someone has already pointed out that HMQ was pregnant with Edward at the time. As someone who is old I remember the assassination and when the awful news hit it was after 7.30 in the evening here in the UK and very dark.
As a point of interest (or not) MacMillans country house is about twenty miles for where I lived and the President visited, causing the local paper to go into raptures.
My big gripe is that being a British show they should get the details right. Someone has already pointed out that HMQ was pregnant with Edward at the time. As someone who is old I remember the assassination and when the awful news hit it was after 7.30 in the evening here in the UK and very dark.
As a point of interest (or not) MacMillans country house is about twenty miles for where I lived and the President visited, causing the local paper to go into raptures.
so touching
lcuthrell-2813923 January 2020
"All it takes is for something worse to come along and you realise it was actually happiness after all"
TheLittleSongbird10 August 2021
The overall standard of 'The Crown's' Season 2 was very, very good, its weakest episode (for me "Lisbon" namely because of not liking the way Phillip was written) being still good and at its best (like "Vergangenheit", which represents perfectly what is so great about the series) it was outstanding. So anybody that loved most of the previous episodes of 'The Crown', like me, would understandably expect a lot from "Dear Mrs Kennedy" especially considering the event that is covered.
Personally do not agree about "Dear Mrs Kennedy" being the highest rated episode of Season 2. "Marionettes" and especially "Vergangenheit" for me were much better. It is still a very good episode indeed, both for the season and for 'The Crown' in general. Containing so many good and even fantastic things, that it did come close to being one of the best. Do agree though that "Dear Mrs Kennedy" suffers from a huge drawback that drags the episode down considerably sadly.
Am going to begin saying what is great about "Dear Mrs Kennedy". The production values are superb. The production and costume design are both classy and sumptuous, but it's the photography that stands out in this regard. The music is not overbearing or low key. It's mostly above par in the writing as well, it always intrigues and provokes a lot of thought.
"Dear Mrs Kennedy's" story often engrosses, especially concerning Elizabeth and Ghana. That had some nice tension and was very interesting from a dramatic and historical perspective, which is a great thing as that is the most focused upon. Cannot fault Claire Foy, who is regal, dignified and classy and tells so much with her expressive and understated eyes and face.
It is unfortunate though that there is a fatal drawback. Really do have to agree about the portrayal of the Kennedys, which is completely wrong. There was never a bigger miscast in 'The Crown's' history than Michael C. Hall as JFK, whose performance all round is terrible. Too smarmy, unintentionally creepy and more a caricature than a real person, when it comes to giving the award for the worst performance of the series he is a deserving nominee and a worthy winner even.
Some of the dialogue is on the soapy side.
Concluding, very good and could have been outstanding if the Kennedys were much better portrayed. 8/10.
Personally do not agree about "Dear Mrs Kennedy" being the highest rated episode of Season 2. "Marionettes" and especially "Vergangenheit" for me were much better. It is still a very good episode indeed, both for the season and for 'The Crown' in general. Containing so many good and even fantastic things, that it did come close to being one of the best. Do agree though that "Dear Mrs Kennedy" suffers from a huge drawback that drags the episode down considerably sadly.
Am going to begin saying what is great about "Dear Mrs Kennedy". The production values are superb. The production and costume design are both classy and sumptuous, but it's the photography that stands out in this regard. The music is not overbearing or low key. It's mostly above par in the writing as well, it always intrigues and provokes a lot of thought.
"Dear Mrs Kennedy's" story often engrosses, especially concerning Elizabeth and Ghana. That had some nice tension and was very interesting from a dramatic and historical perspective, which is a great thing as that is the most focused upon. Cannot fault Claire Foy, who is regal, dignified and classy and tells so much with her expressive and understated eyes and face.
It is unfortunate though that there is a fatal drawback. Really do have to agree about the portrayal of the Kennedys, which is completely wrong. There was never a bigger miscast in 'The Crown's' history than Michael C. Hall as JFK, whose performance all round is terrible. Too smarmy, unintentionally creepy and more a caricature than a real person, when it comes to giving the award for the worst performance of the series he is a deserving nominee and a worthy winner even.
Some of the dialogue is on the soapy side.
Concluding, very good and could have been outstanding if the Kennedys were much better portrayed. 8/10.
Michael C Hall really
mr_view17 December 2017
Of all the actors out there the pick of Michael C Hall as Kennedy was a horrible choice. It's Dexter with a bad Boston accent. The series has been amazingly cast up until casting Dexter to a role he is unfit to play.
Come on it's Michael C Hall a graduate of the Matt Damon school of acting.
Come on it's Michael C Hall a graduate of the Matt Damon school of acting.
Dear Mrs. Kennedy
bobcobb30113 December 2017
Warning: Spoilers
The finest episode of Season 2 to this point and maybe the finest of the series. Everyone is obsessed with the Kennedys and when you focus on them you are guaranteed to have an entertaining episode. We also saw the widest range of emotions from Elizabeth we have seen to date: cunning, jealous, happy, disappointed and so many others all in one hour of TV.
And we saw how special the relationship is with her husband when JFK was assassinated. A deep and well-written episode of The Crown.
And we saw how special the relationship is with her husband when JFK was assassinated. A deep and well-written episode of The Crown.
Great episode, only...
errant-5278520 December 2019
The meeting of two of the greatest women of the twentieth century.
TouchTheGarlicProduction10 December 2017
This episode portrays the (brief) relationship between Elizabeth and the Kennedys. I've been waiting all season for this episode, because I've been very much looking forward to seeing Michael C. Hall's portrayal of JFK. As it turns out, his role amounts to little more than a cameo, with the real focus being on his wife Jackie, and her tumultuous relationship with Elizabeth. As two of the most famous, powerful, and influential women of the twentieth century, it's interesting to see what their interactions may have been like.
It's clear that some time has passed between the end of the last episode and the beginning of this one, and one major theme that we begin to explore is Elizabeth feeling old. It's no surprise then that she feels threatened by Jackie; the bright, young, and beloved socialite. As the Queen questions her own strengths, the episode's b-plot (socialist leanings in Ghana) comes to a head, and she is forced to deal with a precarious diplomatic situation. Ultimately, her sense of competition with Jackie leads her to an unorthodox but extremely effective solution in the best scene of the episode.
I enjoyed the portrayal of the Kennedys in this episode, but I thought their story-line seemed a little truncated. I feel like it might have been a little more effective had they let it play out over the course of a couple episodes. Jodi Balfour is fantastic as Jackie Kennedy, managing to make her sympathetic despite her main role as a foil for Elizabeth. Michael C. Hall did a good job portraying the darker side of JFK that many adaptions shy away from.
In short, this was a thrilling meet-up of two great minds that was a little hampered by the short amount of time it had to flourish, but nonetheless ranks among the more interesting depictions of the Kennedy family.
It's clear that some time has passed between the end of the last episode and the beginning of this one, and one major theme that we begin to explore is Elizabeth feeling old. It's no surprise then that she feels threatened by Jackie; the bright, young, and beloved socialite. As the Queen questions her own strengths, the episode's b-plot (socialist leanings in Ghana) comes to a head, and she is forced to deal with a precarious diplomatic situation. Ultimately, her sense of competition with Jackie leads her to an unorthodox but extremely effective solution in the best scene of the episode.
I enjoyed the portrayal of the Kennedys in this episode, but I thought their story-line seemed a little truncated. I feel like it might have been a little more effective had they let it play out over the course of a couple episodes. Jodi Balfour is fantastic as Jackie Kennedy, managing to make her sympathetic despite her main role as a foil for Elizabeth. Michael C. Hall did a good job portraying the darker side of JFK that many adaptions shy away from.
In short, this was a thrilling meet-up of two great minds that was a little hampered by the short amount of time it had to flourish, but nonetheless ranks among the more interesting depictions of the Kennedy family.
The Arrival of the Other Royal Family
Hitchcoc21 December 2017
Elizabeth is beginning to feel intimidated by the reports of Jackie Kennedy. She has been charming the crowned heads of Europe. Meanwhile, the African countries are beginning to align themselves with the Soviets. Elizabeth decides to upstage the American monarch by visiting Ghana. It is a success. There are some tense scenes between the two women. Obviously, Jackie had the upper hand over Elizabeth's less classic beauty. The Kennedys come off as pompous at times, which I found refreshing. Jackie appears to be two-faced as she disses the English tradition. It is well played as both women stand their ground. However, history tells us that Kennedy was no saint and circumstances that were hidden from the public affected his and her world. And, of course, we know the rest of the story.
Mr. Kennedy
wlchanbill17 December 2017
Warning: Spoilers
The Queen felt tired but still had to entertain the Kennedys. I had no idea that the Kennedys had substance abuse. I didnt like Michael C. Hall acting though. He is usually really good but I think they have miscast him. When he spoke, I could not stop laughing... it was not the right part for him. Mrs. Kennedy was good. She wasnt that pretty but her fashion sense was great. The Queen needs to learn from her about that if images are important for the Monarchy.
history is history is history
davidkaori25 May 2019
Perhaps it's inevitable that the producers, designers and writers of this series will care more about getting the British elements right, without being so particular about the American. To start with a positive, the British elements in this series are nearly all superb. (In passing I confess I am not wild about the characterization of MacMillan.) And about the Kennedys, I liked Jackie. The voice was right, and the acerbity was spot-on. JFK was muffed, however -- and I would not lay this on the actor. When the whole world, including the Royal Court, collapses in grief at the assassination, you have to wonder why, given the flaccid portrayal of JFK in this episode. As a matter of historic fact, when JFK reached Britain after the Vienna summit, he was broken in body and spirit because he felt he had been so badly beaten up by Khrushchev. It is also a matter of historic fact that MacMillan -- the historical one, not the one in this film! -- was quite extraordinary in helping JFK to recuperate. As a JFK fan and as a historian of this period, I was chagrined at the portrayal of JFK. And chagrined at the slap to Jackie's memory as well. No historic evidence exists to support what is shown on screen. The production staff went completely rogue on this one. I love this whole series ten times over, and this episode is the exception that proves the rule. In summary -- nice try on this one, and on the series: Rule Britannia!
Jackie Kennedy
Kek-ka5 December 2020
Michael C Hall is divine but I agree he was a terrible choice for JFK, such a shame. What were they thinking? Jodi Balfour did exceptionally well and I can appreciate she was a good choice to "Hollywood" things up a bit, but strangely Jacqueline Kennedy was nowhere near as pretty. She was just as fashionably gaunt but Jackie's focus, presence, confidence and sense of style rose above her lack of perfection of features.
One Of The Best
russell-ga16 February 2022
JFK did NOT say that!
gordonpgordon15 November 2022
My eyes popped out when I watched JFK say: "What is it to be an American today? Prosperous, powerful, privileged. Certainly." He said nothing of the kind, despite one fact-checking website's (Snopes) saying the speech was "largely accurate." Any American would know that, politically, such an elitist notion was completely inconsistent with the family's famous liberalism, whatever they did or thought privately aside. I guess that's what happens when the Brits write about American culture.
But, that aside, a fantastic episode. Claire Foy is truly amazing! And it's such a relief after the previous very boring episode about Margaret's marriage.
But, that aside, a fantastic episode. Claire Foy is truly amazing! And it's such a relief after the previous very boring episode about Margaret's marriage.
JFK miscast
muriel516 January 2018
I must chime in in support of those viewers who hated Michael C. Hall's portrayal of John Kennedy. It wasn't badly acted, but the actor was just horribly miscast. Surely if they couldn't get someone who looked like Kennedy, they could at least have managed to get the Boston accent, very distinctive voice, and hairstyle right.
Jackie didn't feel real to me. Part of the problem was also the hairstyle. Actually, tis is true of Elizabeth and Margaret as well, in the entire series. There are wisps of hair sticking out everywhere. I'm not sure why the stylists would do this. A look at contemporary photos would indicate that was not the case at all. One would think that hair would be one of the easiest things to get right in a period piece. It may have been done for effect, but those of us old enough to remember the actual people and events are not impressed.
A good series but this episode is off the mark
jdavehigh9 December 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I've started watching this series and been surprised to enjoy it so much. Of course, it's fictionalized history, but the stories have all seemed very plausible and the dialogue and characterizations believable (at least to an American). And I've gained an insight into the personal and political travails of this royal family and even developed some sympathy for them. Most of all, the Queen, someone I had never had the slightest interest in
Through the series, it's easy to imagine how overwhelming it was for her to inherit her father's responsibilities and slowly find her own way through something she never expected or was prepared. Every episode up until this one has been solidly interesting in terms of the characters, history and politics of the times. Even in this episode, the inspiration for the Queen to go to Africa is dramatic and reasonably well done. However....
The scenes with the Kennedy's are atrocious.
As said by many other reviewers, the actor playing JFK is severely miscast. First, he appears to be about 6 inches shorter than JFK actually was. On top of this he appears to be written as a smarmy lounge singer. JFK certainly had some dark spots on his personality, but as a public figure had a certain amount of charisma and capable of projecting confidence and dignity. As off key as his public appearances appear, it's really the behind closed doors scenes where everything goes completely off the rails. The scene with his wife and brother discussing strategy is ludicrous and bizarrely overwrought. If you have the slightest knowledge of the historical JFK and his brother it's hard to imagine them saying a single line of what goes on in this conversation. They sound like a parody of how English people think a swaggering American would talk.
It was also hard to imagine the previously cool and dignified Prince Phillip being as sweaty as portrayed at the thought of meeting Jackie.
Anyway, the episode was a really strange departure from the series overall.
Through the series, it's easy to imagine how overwhelming it was for her to inherit her father's responsibilities and slowly find her own way through something she never expected or was prepared. Every episode up until this one has been solidly interesting in terms of the characters, history and politics of the times. Even in this episode, the inspiration for the Queen to go to Africa is dramatic and reasonably well done. However....
The scenes with the Kennedy's are atrocious.
As said by many other reviewers, the actor playing JFK is severely miscast. First, he appears to be about 6 inches shorter than JFK actually was. On top of this he appears to be written as a smarmy lounge singer. JFK certainly had some dark spots on his personality, but as a public figure had a certain amount of charisma and capable of projecting confidence and dignity. As off key as his public appearances appear, it's really the behind closed doors scenes where everything goes completely off the rails. The scene with his wife and brother discussing strategy is ludicrous and bizarrely overwrought. If you have the slightest knowledge of the historical JFK and his brother it's hard to imagine them saying a single line of what goes on in this conversation. They sound like a parody of how English people think a swaggering American would talk.
It was also hard to imagine the previously cool and dignified Prince Phillip being as sweaty as portrayed at the thought of meeting Jackie.
Anyway, the episode was a really strange departure from the series overall.
A Frustrating Mix
chrisrs1238 April 2020
In many ways, this episode is one of the season's best. Elizabeth's story is compelling and the dance makes for a fantastic story with strong memorable visuals. On the other side though, its the worst portrayal of President Kennedy I've seen - the President famous for his charisma here has absolutely none. Jackie, the superstar, is sadly largely devoid of personality here, making her a disappointment too.
If I could split this into two episodes, I'd give the good half a 9, and the Kennedys a 4. But I can't so I've rated it 7, my usual rating for a good but not great episode.
If I could split this into two episodes, I'd give the good half a 9, and the Kennedys a 4. But I can't so I've rated it 7, my usual rating for a good but not great episode.
Cringing at the Kennedy casting
stephaniecox8 December 2020
I like Michael C. Hall but he was so wrong for this role that it hurt to watch. Those actors did not even remotely resemble the Kennedys; in looks, voice, demeanor, nothing. Why was Jackie so thin? Casting directors really let us down on this one.
Not sure why this is getting high scores.
miller-b5 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The Kennedy's were so miscast that it ruined what could have been an extremely powerful episode.
Michael C. Hall is a joke as the President. Jackie was luke-warm. The private one-on-one conversations between Elizabeth and Jackie were still the hi-light thanks to Claire Foy.
The scene showing Jack hitting Jackie was despicable, imo.
I'd rate this lower but there was some good tension.
Michael C. Hall is a joke as the President. Jackie was luke-warm. The private one-on-one conversations between Elizabeth and Jackie were still the hi-light thanks to Claire Foy.
The scene showing Jack hitting Jackie was despicable, imo.
I'd rate this lower but there was some good tension.
Great episode except....
julieact5 August 2022
I have loved the casting......up to this point. The character of "Jackie Kennedy" is written or portrayed in a horrible manner. I'm not sure which but it is the only hiccup I've seen in the series so far. Thank goodness it's only going to be one episode because for me, she made it practically unwatchable. I hope the casting returns to the stellar state it has been. Claire Foy and Matt Smith are INCREDIBLE. They are the reason I've fallen for this show.
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