‘I Am Jackie O’ airs on The CW

Category: Television and Streaming

There have been countless documentaries about Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis and now, on the 30th anniversary of her death, The CW is airing “I Am Jackie O.” Jackie lived an extraordinary life. This film documents her early life, her life with JFK, her life with Aristotle Onassis, and her life as a book editor, with thoughts from her sister, cousin, biographers, and friends. 

Even though most people know about this iconic woman, there are still little tidbits woven throughout the film that help paint a broader picture of the woman who was, at the time, the most famous woman in the world. She was brought up to create her own image and persona, which she did with flair. She shaped the perception others had of her, yet even though she was perceived as a docile woman of her time, she was quite the opposite. She was tough, intelligent, and thoughtful. 

Jackie was, in truth, the equal of JFK when it came to intelligence. With Jackie he was able to have brilliant conversations and gain intelligent insight and advice. They were a formidable duo yet she often disagreed with some of his decisions, like the way he handled the Bay of Pigs. They shared a deep love for each other, even though he was a womanizer. She knew about his dalliances, yet stayed with him, kept him on the right track emotionally, and loved him.

Her glamor, sophistication, and charm won over the entire world, and she knew the power she had. Jackie desired to leave her mark on the world in a positive way, and she certainly did that.

After Dallas, depression set in. This was more than just depression. Jackie suffered from PTSD and continually, or rather constantly, relived that horrible day. She suffered greatly and wanted to kill herself. The only thing that kept her alive was her role as mother to Caroline and John, Jr. They were the reason she survived, although she stated she hoped her years on earth would not be long. 

Through her letters and interviews as well as newscasts, viewers hear her thoughts. She was meticulous about keeping letters, and to maintain her privacy, when she knew she was dying, she burned each one, one at a time.

The marriage between Jackie Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis was controversial in many ways. Many people think she only married him for his money and security. But there was a real affection between them, and he adored her children. 

Jackie was the First Lady for only three and a half years. She was a book editor for nearly 20 years. During her time as First Lady she brought history and art to the forefront and to the White House, along with her special glamor. After returning to New York after the death of Onassis, Jackie helped save and restore many of the city’s monuments and buildings. She had a strong sense of history, along with her sense of style. 

This enigmatic woman is more than a footnote in American history. Her contributions to the country are countless and they were selfless. She saw what had to be done and did everything she could to do it. Many quotes attributed to JFK were actually written by her. This was a woman who wanted to contribute but was content to stay on the sidelines and let others shine, although she did get a special Emmy for her White House tour TV show that was the most watched show of the time.

Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis died on May 19, 1994. For someone who only lived 64 years, she left a remarkable legacy. I am Jackie O airs on The CW on March 3, 2024. It is part of the “I am” series of films.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.