Netflix’s Kennedy filmed in Liverpool as city transforms for major new historical drama

Liverpool has once again become the backdrop for a major screen production, with filming taking place in the city for upcoming Netflix drama Kennedy.

Over the weekend, parts of Liverpool were transformed to recreate scenes from the early 20th century as crews worked on the highly anticipated eight-part series, which tells the story of the famous Kennedy family’s rise to power.

Netflix’s Kennedy filmed in Liverpool as city transforms for major new historical drama — Credit: Activate Digital

The new drama begins in the 1930s and focuses on Joseph Kennedy Sr. and Rose Kennedy as they build one of America’s most powerful dynasties while raising their nine children. Michael Fassbender stars as Joseph Kennedy Sr., with Laura Donnelly taking on the role of Rose Kennedy.

Liverpool steps back in time

Known for its grand architecture and versatile streets, Liverpool once again proved why it is one of the UK’s most popular filming destinations. Historic areas of the city were used to recreate the period setting, with Liverpool regularly chosen by productions needing locations that can double for cities around the world.

From Hollywood blockbusters to major television dramas, Liverpool has built an impressive reputation on screen in recent years and Kennedy is the latest high-profile production to add to that list.

What is Netflix’s Kennedy about?

Rather than starting with the presidency of John F. Kennedy, the series explores the family story before the White House years.

Netflix says the drama will reveal the “intimate lives, loves, rivalries and tragedies” that shaped the Kennedy dynasty and helped influence the modern world.

The show is inspired by historian Fredrik Logevall’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biography JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917–1956.

Big names behind the camera

The series is created by showrunner Sam Shaw, known for acclaimed dramas including Masters of Sex, while Oscar-winning filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg is directing key episodes.

Another boost for Liverpool

Productions of this scale bring more than star power. Filming supports local jobs, hotels, hospitality venues, transport providers and freelance crews, while also showcasing Liverpool to millions of viewers worldwide.

With Netflix choosing the city for scenes in Kennedy, it is another strong endorsement of Liverpool’s growing status as one of Europe’s leading film and TV locations.