Ep 1. Taking On The Kennedys

Taking On The Kennedys is the season 9 premiere of the award-winning documentary series POV. This episode follows the story of a young, idealistic politician named Joseph J. Donovan Jr., who decided to challenge one of the most famous political families in American history, the Kennedys.

Donovan was a Republican lawyer from a small town in Massachusetts who ran for Congress in 1980 against then-congressman Joe Kennedy, the son of the legendary Robert F. Kennedy. Despite being a long-shot candidate with little political experience, Donovan drew attention to himself by relentlessly attacking Kennedy's record and character during the campaign.

Taking On The Kennedys chronicles Donovan's uphill battle to unseat Joe Kennedy, whose family had dominated Massachusetts politics for decades. The film shows how Donovan tirelessly campaigned throughout the state, relying on grass-roots support and a strong anti-Kennedy message to win over voters.

But the documentary also reveals the cost of taking on such a powerful political dynasty. Donovan and his family faced intimidation, harassment, and even violence from Kennedy's supporters during the campaign. And despite his best efforts, Donovan ultimately lost the election in a landslide.

Taking On The Kennedys provides a fascinating look into the world of American politics and the challenges faced by those who dare to challenge its entrenched power structures. The film offers an intimate portrait of a man who was willing to risk everything to stand up for his beliefs, and it raises important questions about the role of money, power, and influence in our political system.

The episode features interviews with Donovan himself, as well as several of his supporters and opponents from the time, including former Massachusetts governor Michael Dukakis and Kennedy family biographer Laurence Leamer.

With its riveting story and insightful commentary, Taking On The Kennedys is a must-watch episode of POV for anyone interested in politics, history, or the struggle for social justice.