Netflix announces epic new period drama based on 'masterpiece' novel

A new period drama about the famous Kennedy family is coming to Netflix, with acclaimed Hollywood actor Michael Fassbender set to lead the cast.

The new historical drama, simply entitled Kennedy, will see the two-time Oscar nominee take on the role of Joe Kennedy Sr., the patriarch of the infamous American dynasty.

The series is inspired by Fredrik Logevall's book JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956.

The show will be set in the 1930s, long before a Kennedy lived in the White House, following the family's rise to fame as they began to capture the nation's attention.

Showrunner and executive producer Sam Shaw told Netflix's Tudum: "The story of the Kennedys is the closest we have to American mythology - somewhere between Shakespeare and The Bold and the Beautiful.

"But Fredrik Logevall's stunning, nuanced biography pulls a veil on the human strivings and burdens behind the myth, revealing as much about our present moment, how we got here and where we're going, as about the Kennedys themselves.

"I'm thrilled to be able to explore this saga of a family and a world in transition with Eric Roth, Thomas Vinterberg and our incredible band of artists and partners, at a moment when our past feels urgently present."

JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century already has hundreds of positive reviews on Goodreads, with one person writing: "This book is a masterpiece. From start to finish."

"If I could give this 10 stars I would," another agreed, as a third commented: "One of the best books I have read in a long time."

Another thoughtful reader added: "Superbly researched and written biography spanning the period of JFK's youth to his decision to seek the presidency. Though it is full of information, the style of Logevall does not let the book get bogged down in detail. A joy to read."

One more penned: "Totally hooked. Amazing amount of research went into this! A great deal of history I wasn't aware of and great insight into the mindset of JFK. Recommend."

Fassbender is an extremely popular actor, known for his roles in films like Hunger, Shame, Jane Eyre, Steve Jobs, 12 Years a Slave and Inglorious Bastards. He is also known for his roles in both the X-Men and Alien franchises.

One of his earliest stand-out roles was in HBO miniseries Band of Brothers back in 2001, while he most recently starred in 2025 thriller Black Bag.

A release date for Kennedy is yet to be announced.