Jill Hennessy portrays Jacqueline Kennedy in a television film

In the 2001 television film 'Jackie, Ethel, Joan: The Women of Camelot,' Jill Hennessy takes on the iconic role of Jacqueline Kennedy. To prepare for this significant portrayal, Hennessy dedicated herself to studying hours of archival footage of Kennedy, aiming to capture her essence authentically. One of the aspects that drew Hennessy to the miniseries was its unique approach; it did not solely focus on the men in Kennedy's life or just on Jackie herself, but rather presented a broader narrative that included the perspectives of other influential women of the era. Critics had mixed reviews of Hennessy's performance. While Anita Gates and Terry Kelleher praised her for bringing 'elegance' to the role, Steve Oxman offered a more critical view, suggesting that Hennessy lacked the natural grace required for the character. Despite this, he acknowledged that she managed to convey the essential elements of the story, even if the portrayal was not entirely convincing. This film stands out as a significant exploration of women's roles during a pivotal time in American history, showcasing the complexities of their lives beyond the shadows of their famous husbands.