Beanie Feldstein’s Transformative Role: Embodying Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’

The highly anticipated third season of the critically acclaimed anthology series American Crime Story is set to bring one of America’s most gripping and controversial political scandals to the small screen. Titled Impeachment: American Crime Story, this installment promises to meticulously chronicle the national scandal that captivated the country, placing focus on the intertwined lives of Paula Jones, Monica Lewinsky, and Linda Tripp. These three women found themselves at the heart of the first impeachment proceedings against a U.S. president in over a century, a saga that forever altered the landscape of American politics and media. At the center of this historical retelling, the exceptionally talented Beanie Feldstein, at the age of 26 during her casting, steps into the pivotal role of Monica Lewinsky. Lewinsky, a former White House intern, became a household name due to her affair with then-President Bill Clinton. The series draws its inspiration and extensive detail from Jeffrey Toobin’s seminal book, A Vast Conspiracy: The Real Story of the Sex Scandal That Nearly Brought Down a President, ensuring a narrative steeped in investigative journalism and historical accounts. This project marks a significant moment for Feldstein, showcasing her range and ability to tackle complex, real-life characters on a grand stage.

helmed by the prolific producer Ryan Murphy, the third installment of the American Crime Story saga was initially slated to premiere on September 27, 2020, on FX, promising a deep dive into the political machinations and personal dramas of the late 1990s. Beanie Feldstein, already a respected and established actress in Hollywood, has built an impressive resume across various films and theatrical productions. Her casting as Monica Lewinsky generated considerable buzz, highlighting her growing reputation for nuanced and powerful performances. In this high-profile series, Beanie will be co-starring alongside a formidable ensemble. The incomparable Sarah Paulson, known for her transformative roles in Murphy’s other productions, takes on the part of Linda Tripp, a former White House employee whose recordings of conversations with Lewinsky became central to the impeachment inquiry. Additionally, Annaleigh Ashford portrays Paula Jones, whose sexual harassment lawsuit against Bill Clinton ultimately led to the discovery of his relationship with Lewinsky. Adding a crucial layer of authenticity and personal insight, Monica Lewinsky herself will be serving as an executive producer on the series. Her involvement ensures that the story is told with the respect and accuracy it deserves, offering a unique perspective on events that were often distorted by public perception and media frenzy. This collaboration signifies a powerful moment for Lewinsky, allowing her to reclaim and shape her narrative after decades of public scrutiny.

1. Beanie is Part of a Very Famous and Talented Family.

Beyond her own burgeoning career, Beanie Feldstein hails from a family deeply ingrained in the entertainment industry, contributing to her inherent understanding of performance and public life. She has two older brothers who have made significant marks in their respective fields: Jonah Hill and Jordan Feldstein. Jonah Hill, a widely celebrated actor, director, and producer, is an Oscar-nominated talent known for his incredible versatility. His filmography boasts critically acclaimed performances in diverse genres, from the hilarious coming-of-age comedy Superbad, which catapulted him to stardom, to his compelling dramatic turn in The Wolf of Wall Street, earning him an Academy Award nomination. He has continued to impress with roles in films like Moneyball (another Oscar nomination), 21 Jump Street, and his directorial debut, Mid90s, showcasing his expansive artistic range. His journey from comedic actor to respected dramatic force and filmmaker undoubtedly provided an inspiring blueprint for Beanie. Tragically, her other brother, Jordan Feldstein, carved out a highly successful career as a prominent music manager. He was notably the manager for the Grammy-winning pop-rock band Maroon 5, guiding them through much of their global success and ensuring their position as one of the most recognizable musical acts of the 21st century. Jordan’s profound impact on the music industry was cut short when he sadly passed away in 2017 at the tragically young age of 40, due to pulmonary thromboembolism. His passing was a significant loss to his family and the music world, highlighting the fragility of life and the deep bonds within the Feldstein family. Growing up amidst such creative powerhouses, both on-screen and behind the scenes, undoubtedly shaped Beanie’s artistic sensibilities and her commitment to her craft.

2. Beanie is Also a Distinguished Broadway Star.

Beanie Feldstein’s talents extend beyond the silver screen; she is also an accomplished and celebrated Broadway performer, proving her prowess in the demanding world of live theatre. In 2017, she joined the star-studded cast of the highly anticipated Broadway revival of Hello, Dolly!, one of musical theatre’s most beloved and iconic productions. Taking on the role of Minnie Fay, one of Dolly Levi’s assistants, Beanie had the extraordinary opportunity to perform alongside the legendary Bette Midler, who commanded the stage as Dolly Gallagher Levi. This experience provided Beanie with invaluable exposure to the rigors and magic of live performance, requiring immense discipline, vocal strength, and a unique connection with a live audience every single night. Her performance in Hello, Dolly! was well-received, contributing to the show’s overwhelming success and numerous accolades, including a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. Working alongside an icon like Midler, who herself is a multifaceted entertainer, offered Beanie a masterclass in stage presence and comedic timing. The Broadway stage requires a different kind of acting—one that projects emotion and character to the back rows of a theatre, demanding sustained energy and impeccable timing. This experience undoubtedly honed her skills, preparing her for the intensity and emotional depth required for roles like Monica Lewinsky. Her ability to captivate audiences in a live setting showcases her versatile talent and commitment to her art form, making her a truly well-rounded performer with a solid foundation in both stage and screen acting.

3. She’s Starred in Two Critically-Acclaimed Movies That Defined a Generation.

Before taking on the challenging role of Monica Lewinsky, Beanie Feldstein garnered significant critical acclaim for her memorable performances in two distinct yet equally impactful films, solidifying her status as a formidable talent. In 2017, she appeared as Julie in Greta Gerwig’s Oscar-nominated coming-of-age masterpiece, Lady Bird. The film, which resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, explored themes of adolescence, self-discovery, and complex mother-daughter relationships in a vividly authentic way. Beanie’s portrayal of Julie, the loyal and kind-hearted best friend to Saoirse Ronan’s titular character, Lady Bird, showcased her ability to be both humorous and emotionally grounded. She provided a crucial anchor for the film’s narrative, making her character feel incredibly real and relatable amidst the nuanced performances of Saoirse Ronan and Timothee Chalamet. Her ability to create a genuine, supportive friendship on screen contributed significantly to the film’s authenticity and emotional depth, proving her capability to hold her own within a stellar ensemble cast. Following this success, Beanie took on a starring role in Olivia Wilde’s much-praised 2019 directorial debut, Booksmart. In this refreshing and witty teen comedy, Beanie played Molly Davidson, one half of a pair of academically brilliant but socially awkward best friends alongside Kaitlyn Dever. Booksmart was lauded for its fresh take on the high school genre, celebrating female friendship, intelligence, and the often-messy journey of self-acceptance, while challenging traditional stereotypes. Beanie and Kaitlyn’s undeniable chemistry and their pitch-perfect comedic timing were central to the film’s success, earning widespread critical praise and establishing Booksmart as a modern classic. Beanie’s performance as Molly highlighted her knack for balancing sharp comedic delivery with genuine emotional vulnerability, making her character both hilarious and deeply empathetic. These two films, though different in tone, collectively showcased Beanie Feldstein’s range, her ability to deliver compelling performances, and her keen eye for projects that are both entertaining and culturally significant. Her work in these acclaimed movies undoubtedly prepared her for the complexities of portraying a real-life figure as scrutinized as Monica Lewinsky.

4. She is Best Friends with Actor Ben Platt, a Bond Forged in Their Youth.

Beanie Feldstein’s personal life is marked by deep and enduring friendships, none more prominent than her lifelong bond with fellow acclaimed actor and singer, Ben Platt. Their friendship is a heartwarming example of lasting camaraderie in an industry often characterized by fleeting connections. Beanie and Ben met during their high school years, long before either achieved widespread fame, forming a profound connection over their shared passion for performing arts. This foundational relationship has endured through their respective ascensions in Hollywood and on Broadway, making them one of the most beloved best-friend duos in the entertainment world. Their history together goes back to their time at Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, where they were deeply involved in the drama program. They have openly shared anecdotes about their formative years, including attending prom together and nurturing their mutual love for musical theatre. Their friendship isn’t just a personal one; it’s a creative partnership too. Both highly talented vocalists, Beanie and Ben frequently love singing together, often sharing their harmonious duets with their fans on social media or in public appearances. Their joint performances and enthusiastic support for each other’s careers are a testament to their genuine affection and admiration. Ben Platt, a Tony Award winner for his role in Dear Evan Hansen, and Beanie Feldstein represent a unique kind of Hollywood success story, proving that it is possible to maintain authentic connections while navigating the pressures of fame. Their friendship provides a powerful support system for both artists, grounding them in their shared history and passion, and continues to be an inspiring example of enduring platonic love.

5. She’s in a Relationship with Bonnie Chance Roberts and Championing Authentic Representation.

In addition to her thriving professional life and close friendships, Beanie Feldstein has openly shared insights into her personal life, including her relationship with producer Bonnie Chance Roberts. Beanie publicly discussed her personal life and sexuality in the context of promoting Booksmart, a film that notably celebrated diverse representations of identity, including queer relationships. This transparent approach by Beanie highlights her commitment to authenticity and her understanding of the importance of visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. During an interview with PEOPLE magazine, she articulately explained her perspective on her sexuality, stating, “For me in my life, it is a part of who I am but it is not at all my defining feature. It doesn’t mean I don’t love my girlfriend, it’s just part of who I am.” This powerful statement underscores a crucial message: that while identity encompasses many facets, no single aspect should overshadow the entirety of a person’s being. Beanie’s remarks resonate deeply, especially in a world where public figures are often narrowly defined by one characteristic. By openly discussing her relationship with Bonnie Chance Roberts, Beanie contributes to a broader conversation about queer representation in Hollywood and society at large. Her candidness helps normalize LGBTQ+ relationships, offering a relatable and positive public figure for many. It reinforces the idea that love and identity are multifaceted and personal, and that celebrating these aspects openly fosters a more inclusive and understanding community. Beanie’s approach is not just about sharing personal details; it’s about advocating for a world where people are seen and valued for their whole selves, making her not only a talented actress but also an admirable advocate for authenticity and acceptance.