President John F. Kennedy remains a prominent figure in speculative fiction, whether he is seen shaking hands with Doctor Manhattan or surviving the events of Dallas. Over six decades after his assassination, JFK continues to hold a mythical status in the collective imagination of America.
One can only imagine what he could have achieved for the United States if he had not been tragically killed. Despite the uncertainty, versions of JFK appear in various works, from Watchmen to Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Actor Brett Stimely has become known as a go-to stand-in for portraying Kennedy in Hollywood.
Stimely’s portrayal of JFK began in Watchmen, where he interacted with Doctor Manhattan. He later reprised the role in Transformers: Dark of the Moon, showcasing Kennedy’s famous Moon speech. Stimely’s dedication to accuracy, from studying the Zapruder film to working with renowned directors, has solidified his reputation as a reliable JFK impersonator.
Stimely’s performances in both fiction and non-fiction films have highlighted the enduring allure of JFK as a character. His youth, charm, and legacy continue to inspire numerous depictions in alternate history narratives. Transformers: Dark of the Moon is available for streaming on Peacock, providing viewers with more Kennedy-related content to explore.