Paul Anthony Kelly: From Modeling to John F. Kennedy Jr.

Paul Anthony Kelly’s recent portrayal of John F. Kennedy Jr. In the limited series “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette” has catapulted the Canadian actor into the spotlight. Prior to this role, Kelly primarily worked as a model, with limited acting experience. His casting came after a challenging search by producers, who were on the verge of pausing production until finding the right fit.

A Late Entry into Acting

Kelly’s acting resume included only one previous credit – a small role as a “Photo Model” in two episodes of the Canadian drama “Body Language” in 2010. Brad Simpson, an executive producer of “Love Story,” explained to People that Kelly embodied the qualities they sought in the role, and they found him just in time. Kelly himself described being “thrust into this position with no time to think about anything else,” and prepared by immersing himself in research, mirroring Kennedy’s own study habits. He reflected on the role as a life-changing opportunity, stating it was a “kismet situation.”

From Small-Town Canada to the Runway

Kelly hails from Port McNicoll, Ontario, Canada. He began his career in Toronto after being scouted for modeling. He secured a contract with Ford Models after being noticed although working at an American Apparel store. Kelly described his early style as punk rock, embracing eyeliner, tight jeans, and a mohawk in high school, and identifying as a “true metalhead at heart.” He transitioned from modeling to pursuing acting opportunities.

A Successful Modeling Career

Kelly enjoyed a successful modeling career, working on print and runway projects. During his modeling work, he frequently heard comments about his resemblance to John F. Kennedy Jr., though he didn’t initially recognize the comparison himself. He modeled for brands including Brooks Brothers, Bonobos, Banana Republic Factory, and Eddie Bauer, among others.

Physical Transformation for the Role

To prepare for the role of Kennedy, Kelly underwent a physical transformation, increasing his size from a 38 U.S./48 European to a 52 in just three weeks. He also embraced his chest hair, a departure from his modeling work where it was often shaved.

Immersing Himself in the Character

Kelly prepared for the role by utilizing available resources, including an audiobook of Kennedy narrating his father’s book, “Profiles in Courage,” which he listened to daily before filming. He also worked with a dialect coach, Jerome Butler, to refine his speech and eliminate “Canadianisms.” He supplemented this with extensive viewing of Kennedy’s interviews, particularly one with Larry King.

Personal Life

Paul Anthony Kelly is married to Syd Widziszewski-Kelly, a freelance film production coordinator whose credits include “Don’t Worry Darling” and “Black Maria.” The couple married in 2023 and celebrated their one-year anniversary in 2024. In February 2026, Kelly announced the birth of their first child. He and his wife currently reside in Portland, Oregon, having relocated after wildfires threatened their previous home in California.

From Catwalks to Front Rows

Since landing the role of Kennedy, Kelly has transitioned from walking runways to attending fashion shows as a guest of honor. He has attended Dior menswear shows, alongside celebrities like Robert Pattinson and Anya Taylor-Joy, and a Tom Ford show. He noted that playing Kennedy influenced his personal style, encouraging him to be more playful with fashion.

Future Prospects

The internet has enthusiastically suggested Kelly for the role of Batman in the upcoming DC Universe film, “The Brave and the Bold.” Kelly expressed enthusiasm for the possibility, while “Love Story” executive producer Brad Simpson hopes for roles reminiscent of classic Cary Grant films.