The spirit of celebrity impersonation hit Washington, D.C., recently with the hilarious and lively Jack Schlossberg look-alike contest held at Meridian Hill Park, which sparked curiosity among both the local community and those connected to the legacy of the Kennedy family. On what turned out to be one of those chilly late November afternoons, hundreds of young D.C.-area residents gathered to partake and witness this quirky event celebrating the grandson of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States.
Schlossberg, known not just for his familial ties to the famous political dynasty but also for his charm and public presence as Vogue's political correspondent, has earned quite the admiration among younger American voters. Often credited with blending contemporary issues with his family’s storied legacy, his appeal was undeniable, transforming this look-alike contest from mere jest to a gathering of community spirit. “He’s got the looks and the legacy! He’s the perfect look-alike subject for D.C.,” exclaimed event organizer Georgia Parolski, exuding enthusiasm as she addressed the crowd.
A colorful backdrop featuring the James Buchanan Memorial statue provided the setting as participants donned button-up shirts and black ties, some even going shirtless to capture the essence of Schlossberg’s youthful boldness. Ten contestants stood before the crowd, ready to strut their stuff. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as onlookers voiced their preferences with cheers and laughter. One can only picture the delightful camaraderie, as friends nudged one another and pointed at their favorites, all eager to find the one who most resembled the young Kennedy.
Although Schlossberg hinted he might make an appearance on social media, he was, unfortunately, elsewhere, leaving attendees with mixed feelings. “I am bummed he’s not here, but the mystique just adds to the excitement,” Parolski confessed. Following the initial rounds of cheering and mock trivia quizzes about Schlossberg, two hours of eager anticipation culminated with one contestant being crowned as the winner.
Daniel Bonomo, a 25-year-old Georgetown University graduate student, walked away not just with the title of Jack Schlossberg’s look-alike but also with some sweet prizes: $50 cash, plus $100 gift cards to both Zipcar and local eatery Salazar. “I’ve always been too online and kind of really obsessed with politics,” Bonomo shared, drawing laughter from the crowd, who were captivated by his commitment. Sporting his tiara, he humorously added, “Unfortunately, I’m not single, but this moment is everything!”
Despite the fun and laughter, the event organizers acknowledged they likely wouldn’t be holding another contest. Ruchika Sharma, co-organizer of the event, commented, “The quick cycles of online trends mean this one was probably just for now. When Georgia texted me about doing this, I said we need to squeeze it out as fast as we can before the idea fades away.” Their gamble paid off, as initial RSVPs surged past 1,200, creating excitement for folks who celebrated the spirit of fun and the intriguing legacy of the Kennedys.
The event stands as just another illustration of how Washington, D.C.—often painted as serious and sometimes stuffy—can let loose and play along with the whims of youth and the enduring fascination with political royalty. It also showcases the endless delights and dynamics of community gatherings, drawing on nostalgia weaved with modernity. With its mix of humor, flair, and unapologetic celebration of familial legacy, the Jack Schlossberg look-alike contest was not just another event; it was proof of the enduring charm surrounding the Kennedy family and their influence on American pop culture.
