Where to start
The Kennedys
2 versions · originally a book, 1984
Themes: Power, Privilege, Tragedy, Dynasty, Political Intrigue.
These chronicles strip away the mythos of the Kennedy dynasty to reveal the turbulent private lives behind their public political image.
✦ Most fans start here
The Kennedys (1984)

The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Kennedys
Peter Collier, David Horowitz · Book · 1984
The Kennedys (1984) provides a sprawling, investigative look at the family legacy, offering deep insight into the personal dilemmas and struggles of the younger generation for dedicated history readers.

2011 series
The Kennedys
Stephen Kronish · Series · 2011
The Kennedys (2011) transforms the family archives into a compelling television drama, focusing on the high-stakes triumphs and inevitable tragedies of the political clan for viewers seeking a narrative-driven experience.
Common questions
Is The Kennedys 2011 television series based on the 1984 book?
The 2011 television series titled The Kennedys is a dramatic production that draws inspiration from the historical figures and events documented in the 1984 book The Kennedys. Both works explore the complex lives and political legacy of the Kennedy family through their respective narrative formats.
Should I read The Kennedys book before watching the 2011 television series?
Reading the 1984 book The Kennedys provides historical context that informs the narrative of the 2011 television adaptation. While the series functions as a standalone production, engaging with the original source material allows for a deeper understanding of the biographical details presented on screen.
How long is the 2011 television series The Kennedys?
The television series The Kennedys, released in 2011, is structured as a miniseries. It covers the political rise and personal challenges of the family members over several episodes, offering a comprehensive dramatization of the events originally detailed in the 1984 book titled The Kennedys.
What is the difference between the 1984 book and the 2011 television series titled The Kennedys?
The 1984 book The Kennedys provides a written historical account of the family, whereas the 2011 television series The Kennedys is a dramatized adaptation. The book serves as a literary reference, while the television series utilizes visual storytelling to interpret the events documented in the source material.