John F. Kennedy Jr.'s Pursuit of Politics and Marrying Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

John F. Kennedy Jr. was determined to enter politics and save his marriage before his tragic plane crash, according to historian Steven M. Gillon. His wife, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, was haunted by Princess Diana's death, which exacerbated her fears of relentless paparazzi scrutiny.

On the 20th anniversary of his fatal plane crash, historian Steven M. Gillon reminisces about his friendship with John F. Kennedy Jr., revealing his political ambitions and efforts to salvage his marriage.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was deeply affected by the tragic death of Princess Diana, fearing a similar fate due to the relentless paparazzi pursuing her every move.

Despite not knowing Prince William and Prince Harry personally, John F. Kennedy Jr. was profoundly impacted by Diana's death, as it highlighted the dangers of media scrutiny. The Kennedy and royal families had long-standing ties, with a monument to JFK in London and Prince Philip holding Kennedy Jr.'s hand as a child.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy urged her husband to call William and Harry to offer condolences, but Kennedy Jr. refrained. He was shaken by the event and realized the extent of the paparazzi threat to his wife.

According to Elizabeth Beller, author of a recent biography on Bessette-Kennedy, the couple struggled to cope with the news of Diana's death. Bessette-Kennedy repeatedly expressed concern for William and Harry, but her husband maintained that their situations were different.

The relentless paparazzi surveillance surrounding Kennedy Jr. and his wife weighed heavily on their marriage. Bessette-Kennedy was often portrayed negatively in the media, fostering a misconception. However, those close to her knew her as a caring and compassionate individual.

Despite the intense scrutiny, Kennedy Jr. attempted to shield his wife from the paparazzi. He pleaded with them to give her space, but they persisted.

On July 16, 1999, John F. Kennedy Jr., Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, and her sister Lauren died in a tragic plane crash. The event cut short Kennedy Jr.'s political aspirations and the couple's efforts to navigate their marital challenges.

Beller emphasizes the need for the media to exercise greater restraint in their coverage of public figures. She believes that the toxic nature of media scrutiny and online aggression can take a devastating toll on individuals.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.