Vanity Fair Spotlights the Original Influencers in ‘Feud: Capote vs. the Swans’

Article penned by Paul Chi

The long-anticipated sequel in Ryan Murphy's FX anthology series, Feud: Capote versus the Swans, made its grand debut at the Museum of Modern Art in New York on Tuesday. This season focuses on observations of the intimate betrayals inflicted by Truman Capote on his most cherished women friends. These were high-profile women from New York's crème de la crème all of whom he benignly referred to as his "swans". He disclosed confidential details about their lives through drafts of his semi-completed novel, bringing to light many scandals. Results of his betrayal led to a permanent ostracization from their high society. Assuming the role of Capote is Tom Hollander. The English actor spent approximately seven months to replicate the high-pitched voice of Capote. He shed light on his process which involved listening to audio clips of Capote's real voice. He mentioned that he would start his day by listening to Capote’s voice and would do so intermittently throughout the day as a reminder. Prior to each take on set, he would listen again to Capote’s voice to immerse himself in the role.

The series is inspired by Laurence Leamer's 2021 non-fiction book named Capote’s Women: A True Story of Love, Betrayal, and a Swan Song for an Era. Capote’s character development, according to Hollander, may supplement to the audience’s ambivalence towards the author. However, Hollander believes his portrayal of Capote might evoke feelings of empathy from the viewers.

The role Barbara “Babe” Paley, Capote’s dearest friend and most valued swan is played by Naomi Watts. Babe’s impeccable fashion sense and her glamorous aesthetic set her as a fashion trendsetter. While she was known to be flawless, Watts further expressed that Babe also dealt with her own set of issues beneath the perfect exterior.

Portraying the role of socialite Nancy “Slim” Keith, Diane Lane found Keith’s memoir to be a crucial resource for her character’s development. Lane explains that while doing her research, she grew fond of the energy and spirit of Keith. The cast's various research stumbled upon some surprising revelations.

Calista Flockhart came back to the screen as Lee Radziwill, Jackie Kennedy Onassis's younger sister. Flockhart recognized the difference in personality Radziwill portrayed in contrast with the heterogenous opinions of those who personally knew her.

The show’s wardrobe comprises of elegant dresses lent by vintage dealers and collectors, complimented with bespoke pieces designed by Zac Posen. Chloë Sevigny, who plays the part of stylish '50s socialite C.Z. Guest, described her costume fittings as restrictive yet enjoyable.

Despite the on-screen dazzling glamour, the backstage wasn't as glittery. Naomi Watts, who portrayed a character with a heavy smoking habit, disclosed that she smoked almost 200 prop cigarettes during the course of filming, which resulted in frequent migraines and bouts of eye discomfort.

Playing the role of Johnny Carson's ex-wife Joanne Carson, Molly Ringwald inferred that after her divorce in 1972, she found solace in her growing closeness with Capote. She emphasized Joanne’s acceptance and understanding of Capote.

Ringwald described the show’s themes as more relevant than ever. “They were expected to be absolutely perfect—to be the perfect hostess, to look a certain way, act a certain way. In a way, they were the original influencers. If you think of influencers today like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, it’s because they are creating their own business, and it’s not because of a man. We have come a long way since then.”