When they started talking about Bobby's death and Ethel said, "I don't want to talk about that, you could see her getting emotional. I broke down in tears.
I just adore Ethel. I admire her so much. She is a reference for all woman , wife , and mothers . I wish I had just a little of her personality. God bless her and her family. Love from France.
Thank you Rory...and thanks to your wonderful mom and all your sisters and brothers. This documentary of your mom's amazing life journey is incredibly enlightening and inspiring in how it captures and evokes the incredible power and importance of love and devotion to one's cares, concerns, family, country and fellow human beings.
Never took much notice of American history, until I accidently hit to watch about your Mum Ethel. What an amazing woman, wife and mother you have , everyone would say about your aunt Jackie being beautiful, did anybody think to say that about your mum , she was a looker your dad a handsome man, who had such a beautiful soul and taken far too soon. I have since watched a lot more about your family and love watching about your dad on the road and taking your brothers and sisters along . Think you have an amazing family,
Rory is a incredible filmmaker. This is an historic chronicle of American life. No life and no one is perfect, but what a remarkable life Ethel Kennedy has.
Don't get me wrong, I admire Ethel...but she was not a role model for me, being a single mom at 22, after a divorce. I had to work, no servants, like the majority of single moms. She was a millionnaire. I admire her free spirit, her strength, her courage. How tragic to witness her husband being shot. How sad being pregnant and giving birth when mourning the husband you love. She went through many tragedies, her parents dying in a plane crash, the assassination of JFK, the suicide of a son, the accidental death of another son.
I hate to say this, Zurzakne, but I think you had read this negative- ness off from reading a book that talks alot of wrong things about what Ethel has done or said. Ethel is ONE of the most admir- able person I have ever seen and known about! And found her great strengths in her own deep great faith in Our Lord Savior Jesus Christ and Our Blessed Mother of Jesus! She and Robert had instill- ed that thought to their own children and to be able to pass ALL that down to the next genera- tions and to the next! I just totally admired her, her great love of her life and her large children, her great faith in Catholicism, the great strengths that she has and to be able to pass ALL that down to the next generation and on to the very next! Happy Mother's Day to you, Ethel and to all of your daughters and your daughters-in-laws also and not to mention to being the mother of all your animals that you and Robert had raised them and along their off-springs after the next and so ons! God be with you and to all of your children and to your grandchildren and God knows how many of your great-grandchildren you have had by so far to the next! I wish I was being able to be in person to person to physically being able to give you a HUGE drawn out HUGS between the two of us in a very small private room for the two of us!!
Bobby was brilliant. He cared about 'the little man,' all the right issues and I believe he would have done all possible to make the difficult changes. He had passion, courage and determination. What's happened to our country since then, for the most part, is obscene.
@J. B: No he didn't. It was all for votes. What Kennedy cared for "the little guy"? RFK was SO GREAT he had a string of lovers. (Yes, including Marilyn.) Actions speak louder than words. Also, he was POWER HUNGRY. It was never about, "the little guy".
@@Missditabomb RFK was a very decent man. He overcame tremendous personal loss and forged a path of his own cut too short by another assassin’s bullets. It’s a matter of record that while he was laying in the floor mortally sounded the first-and last-thing he ever said was “Is everyone all right?” Great man.
I own this great documentary on the matriarch of the Kennedy family Ethel now! I thought it was a great job that Rory did as a filmmaker/documentarian! My favorite part was when she put Ethel to the test about Bobby's assassination and she simply said, "Nobody gets a free ride"...so true! This family continues to be a source of great inspiration and strength to me since I've gone through a great many losses and challenges as well! "What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger". Thanks for posting this ~
To Bobby Kennedy and his wife and kids .This wonderful man Bobby rub a black boy Face .As a black women I never seen a white man who cared so much .God bless all your kids .I wanna thank you for caring about our black life's . You're a strong man
Mrs Ethel Kennedy is an Inspiring lady to watch. Really learnt Life lessons from her Spirit and Joy of Life. Long Life prayed for M'am. And Thanks Rory for bringing this indefatigable Woman to us.
Wonderful documentary. I loved RFK and was devastated when he was taken from us. He made the world a better place and would have made it even greater if he had been elected President. I also admired his wife, Ethel, for her faith and conviction to continue her husband’s work. His children have continued to make this country a better place.
I really enjoyed watching this documentary. As a young child i was always aware about the Kennedy family and the era of Camelot. My daddy was a big reader and i remember he had all kinds of books about the Kennedy family, especially of JFK and Bobby Kennedy. It was lovely to know more about Ethel and her remembrances of Bobby. It reminds me about how my mother talked about my daddy. I loved to hear her stories about how she met daddy and their relationship. They met and married within 9 months in 1964. They were truly soul mates and best friends. It is nice to know that my twin sister and I were not the only ones who called their mother, mommy.
We lived around a few streets and my sister cleaned the Kennedy home. We all got a ride home in JFK limo by his driver . He wanted us home safe. A ride we never forgot. I miss The Cape but, live in Gloucester Massachusetts. The movie The Perfect Storm was about my cousin Jodie's husband Captain Billy Tyne and his crew lost a sea. George Clooney, portrayed Billy. That's the Island we moved to live. What a great generation we all had been born into . I love your family. Blessings to your mom and your aunt Joan .
I Will forever Love the Kennedy Family' i will always honor their very existence, They were and remain, the finest examples of what i believe all Americans should strive and hope to be. as a teenager, i was fortunate to have met both Caroline and young John
They did not deserve their untimely deaths. They were womanizers - their political moral compass was terrific but they knew they could get away with anything- today the press would turn their activities into scandal.
With all the tragedy the kennedys have had they stick together love each other and are loyal to each other. This doc was so well done. I believe John Kennedy Jr. Lost his life when his plane crashed on the way to rory's wedding. This is the first time I have seen her and her siblings except for rfk Jr. What a wonderful family. Ethel has been an inspiration to many of us single mothers. '
Thanks so much for this upload of Rory Kennedy's documentary on her mother Ethel. It took me back to my childhood in the '60's, and I will always remember all the tumult of that decade, with Vietnam, Civil Rights, and the JFK, MLK, and RFK assassinations. The Kennedy family is very much a part of our American history in the 20th-21st centuries. Just as Princess Diana was the greatest queen Britain never had, RFK Sr. is the greatest president America never had. It still makes me tear up remembering the RFK assassination, all the people lining the streets and the railroad tracks to see his funeral train make its way from NYC to Wash. DC. I hope RFK Jr can become president, and bring a new era to this country, and that Ethel Kennedy will see another Kennedy presidency in her lifetime.
I remember this moment in history, I watch the coverage Democratic Convention with my Father! The lost of JFK was very tangible! My father and I simple gave our allegiance to RFK, for us it just made sense! In the end we both had our hearts broken again and again, With the deaths of MLK and RFK it seem hurt much more!
I have never heard their story; Bobby and Ethel's story that is. This is such a moving story; I really have a whole new level of respect for this family. These 2 clearly lived the American dream. Ethel was such an amazing lady so strong and full of life. They are true Catholics and respected pro life obviously they had 11 kids. What Bobby did for equality and how he strongly he fought for the betterment of our country was so inspiring g. Democrats were different in those days not like today where the DNC and their party sell of our country to other countries. How shameful. I love the down to earth Kennedy's I believe their Catholic faith is what made them care so much for everyone and made them connect to others.
I have just watched one of the most beautiful, compelling and loving stories I have seen in a very long time. I have always been interested in JFK and RFK and remember the nights that the news of JFK ‘s assassination and RFK assassination come over the news. I have watched many stories about Jackie Kennedy but never have I seen a story about Ethel. I now know who this beautiful woman is and how her love for her family and her devotion to her husband held her together and shone through. The video cut of so I don’t know if there was more but thank you. RIP JFK and RFK
A very nice documentary by daughter Rory interviewing her mother Ethel who had so much to do with American history - Rory was born a few months after her father's assassination. So much happiness and tragedy for one person to bear. Ethel no doubt went through what would would have broken lesser people into pieces, she and Bobby sustained each other and both grew together and went through many character building changes together, and her memory of him kept her going as a mom and I am sure she did the best she could, but it is too bad some of her sons did not live up to the legacy of her and their father (rumors of Bobby's affairs are just that, rumors), but it must be an enormous burden being a child of any Kennedy. A very touching documentary.
Watching this 6 yrs after it was made. All the privilege and joys can come with tragedy’s. No one escapes this life on earth without pain. They paid a price for their excesses and indulgences and they stayed a strong unit which is admirable. It was worth the watch. The John and Robert Kennedy years were pretty special to live through. The length of Ted’s Life, proved in the end, his allegiance and strength to lead our country into a balanced and partisan Senate.
Time hasn"t healed the pain that happened when we lost these two brothers. It will not go away, but if we, each one, will do whatever we can to help-- no matter small -- to ensure democracy will flourish -- it just may happen that America will once again become great through the awful of grace of God.
+Christina Spuhler, thank you for your lovely post. In my opinion, it begins with the politicians being much more honest. If they are pushing an agenda, say so and don't use the American people as scapegoats. Stop misrepresenting one another when talking about political opponents. Let the people really decide based on the platform of their party. Debate like the Kennedy's did in the media. If the leader is assassinated, do not hide truths from their citizens. It would begin when the American people can once again trust that if the Government is not telling them something, it is in their best interest not to know.
She had plenty of help believe me .. not that it wasn’t difficult BUT when you have that kind of money it’s not like she was cooking , cleaning AND working
Ethel had cooks, maids, nurses, chauffeuers. She spent most of her time partying and was part of Jetsetter crew. Ethel Skakel spent comparatively little time rearing children.
I loved this story...very well said. People don't know how real the Kennedy family are. They stuck together as families should. Never seeing "color" they were balanced and were taught to be "eyes wide open rather then blind". Thank you Mrs. Kennedy for staying down to earth and raising your children that way. God bless you.
I think you need to read a few bio's of the father Joe. He made his money from bootleg booze during Prohibition & was never faithful: he openly spent a lot of time chasing actresses. His longest affair was with Marlene Dietrich. He also sent his daughter who was a little 'slow' to a psych hospital where she had a lobotomy that left her a very disabled vegetable & unable to speak . He never visited her & her Mother did not visit her for 20 years. He also did a deal with the Mafia to fund the boys political campaigns on the understanding that organised crime wouldn't be on their agenda once elected. Bobby reneging on this & publicly often stating organised crime was a priority ( it's unclear if he knew Joe's promise) was prob why he & his brother died .
I’ve never spent much time thinking about Bobby and/or Ethel Kennedy or their children. I found this program to be very down to earth and endearing. Referring to their parents as Daddy and Mummy was sweet and reflected the great love and respect these grown children had for their parents. That Bobby and Ethel loved each other was obvious. The powerful sense of family, the joy, sense of fun, and earth shaking sadness was brought forward. Ethel has my respect for raising their children (after Bobby’s death) with such love for their father. Thank you for sharing this powerful story.
Great documentary. I wished that Rory had captioned her siblings' names the first time they spoke so we would know which one was which. It is easy to tell Bobby Jr because he is the spitting image of his father and Joe is easy to identify because of his gray hair but the others aren't as easy to identify (though I did identify Kathleen). RFK was my favorite of the Kennedy clan. I always have wondered what changes he would have made had he lived and gone on to be President (though 4 years before my time)
The Kennedy men have huge hearts, and just realised the amount of devastation Robert had over John kiling.. I have all the respect for them, although I am not American my self I wish they have leaded America, the world and the middle east would be in better state by far. All the love from Kuwait.
Love, love, love this - so incredibly inspiring, yet, at the same time, heartbreaking when compared to what our political process and democracy is going through, now.
Lost my sister. Money doesn't mitigate loss or grief one bit; nothing takes the edge off, except the inner reckoning that life is still worth living and you need to look ahead. It's not an easy realization, but the person you loved and lost would want you to. I kept thinking of Mrs. Kennedy and her life experiences and how she moved forward without meltdowns, cracks or screams, booze or drugs (wouldn't the press have loved all that?). Seeing her here lovely, solid, quipping and practical; smiling and sharp as a tack, is an even greater comfort.
Two brothers with a closeness beyond Two brothers with hearts that shined on others Nevermore will we have them again Nevermore will closeness be the same
Bravo Ethel! You are an inspiration for all the women on this Earth….Vous êtes une très grande Dame! Merci d’avoir accepté de faire ce reportage….we needed to know from you ❤
RFK was my hero because he was going to stop the war which I feared being drafted into. We prayed in class on the last day of 6th grade in 1968. That morning as she woke up my sisters I heard my mother say, softly, “they shot Kennedy.” I turned on the Tv & saw the clip of him on the floor moving his arm so I thought he would live. On Saturday we watched that long train ride with all those Americans mourning, knowing what we lost. Mrs. Kennedy was unbelievably stoic, so strong.
Thank you so much for this documentary. Your mom is an amazing woman as was your father This is most definitely one of the best documentaries I’ve seen. It’s a roller coaster of emotions and is so appreciated. God bless you for sharing this. (PS Your mom and my mom share the same birthday although my mom was born in 1934. )
Ethel, a pillar of strength through it all and never hear complains, not that I know of. I like Ethel's children refer to her as "Mummy" - a lovely documentary from the eyes of her children. My all time most favorite picture of the Kennedys was that of the two brothers sitting opposite each other deep in discussion.
I was 21 when the Kennedy’s came to power in Washington - this was an amazing family and great presidency cut short. The Kennedy wives are all special and very real and sincere - no handlers and no pretention - Ethel is dynamite she has a great sense of humor and boundless energy and confidence. Her children obviously adore her and life has tested her and found her strong and gracious!
She was never a nice person. She treated her staff terribly, and her children. Her kids were always in trouble. They had no discipline, and she was quite cold and distant with them, particularly when they father died. Even now you can find stuff about her on the Internet. Of course her kids are rallying around her now. She is an old woman.
Good for Ethel that she has done this docu and showed herself an ordinary human, great character and a person of spirit. If the other Mrs. Kennedy (JBKO i mean) would have done a film like that the public could've connect with her as a person.. but i guess that was not what she'd sought. Her aim was to be a myth
What wonderful parents! I love how they included their children in everything. Lucky kids to have them as parents! So sad when Bobby was killed. So happy to know what an awesome mom and wife she was.
The very first memory of my life is when their dad was murdered. The world would have been a better place if RFK had lived. I still feel the loss to this day. What a lovely family. ☮️💟
Bobby said it well he didn’t need the title, he didn’t need the money, he didn’t need the office space. He wanted to serve. That was sincere because he didn’t feel that comfortable going it alone but not alone his wife was by his side all the time bolstering him and he needed that.
One of my favorite videos of your parents. I watch it every year and I am sad every time. Your Father and Uncle would be sad about our country now. I love Your Mother. She is such a good Mother and Wife. God bless you and your entire family.
Amazing story, how she did this with 11 children is amazing. Ethel your heading straight to heaven where your wonderful husband will be waiting for you
She's been my favorite Kennedy lady for years ! She stood by her husband side and he stood by her side ! They should of been in the White House ! Rip Bobby !
"Kennedys don't cry." No wonder the kids/grandkids in that family were ridden with so many issues. I'm not judging because I know that attitude and suppression were the norm for those times. I'm just making an observation. Oy.
say what you want about the Kennedys for being a rich family they have always tried to do good towards the middle and lower class families in this country by being in politics ......
Ethel eventually took a hands off approach to David's problems and anyone else's, pretty much. A few months before David's death, ironically, his aunt and godmother, Georgeann Skakel Terrien died of alcoholism. In the years before Georgeann died, Ethel largely severed contact with her sister, writing to her to chastise and berate her. Ethel Skakel Kennedy refused to call or visit. Once David's problems became too much for Ethel, she dispatched a Skakel nephew, to oversee getting David into a treatment program. Most of them were full, they weren't admitting new patients. Her nephew reported back that no spots were available unless they were willing to use the Kennedy name. Mrs. Kennedy said no. It was a hard no, absolutely not. She wasn't keen on the media picking up what was happening with her son. He didn't make it into a program. Within days, he was dead.
I am a staunch conservative. This is an amazing documentary. If only democrats conducted themselves and lived America as this family did. Can you imagine what President Kennedy and Bobby think about the leftist progressive democratic party today?? They'd be republican...
Thank you for sharing this…. I’ll always remember when President Kennedy was killed, I was a sophomore, and when RFK his brother was murdered!! Like his brother speaking for the hood of mankind… stirring up hope in a generation that’s as lost… Behind every great man there is a great women…. RIP Ethel…. Blessings upon all your children & theirs…
Sometimes i wish their father Joe did not so strongly demand they strive for a presidency. They both never would have been murdered . I remember how all of Europe mourned for Jack and when Bobby was murdered .
In less than one month it will be 50 years since RFK was shot on June 5, 1968 and died the next day. I remember that day like it was yesterday. Poor Ethel. She has had it rough!
Richard Hutchison, And she came out swinging. I want more about her. There's like 22 movies about Jackie, let's see a film about Ethel. Let's get to know her more, let's see a film about her and Bobby's love story. She's a fascinating woman. I love the part where they talk about her stealing the horses. She would have been a hilarious first lady honestly, always getting in trouble.
How terrible that Bobby Kennedy's murderer was just granted parole. Smh. And it's 50 plus years later and Ethel still is absolutely heartbroken over losing her husband.. You can see it on her face the moment Rory brings it up. She lost the love of her life and I honestly believe that. I don't believe in any kind of religious thing or heaven or hell but i can see WHY people like Ethel cling to it... Imagine being able too see and be with your love again and get the years you never got to have. If only.
