‘RESPECT AND KINDNESS’

Donatella, who took over the brand on her brother’s death, said she was “amazed that after so many years we still lack respect for the dead, we want to create a scandal around someone who can no longer defend themselves.” The designer said she had not seen the show. Murphy hoped she would, telling Variety: “If she did I think that she would see that we treat her and her family with respect and kindness.

“She really is a feminist role model in my book, because she had to step into an impossible situation, which she did with grace and understanding.”

The series stars Venezuelan heartthrob Edgar Ramirez as Versace, as well as Penelope Cruz and singer Ricky Martin.

Versace’s international fashion empire included clothes, fragrances and home furnishings.

He was 50 when he was killed by Andrew Cunanan, whose motives remain a mystery.

Cunanan — portrayed by actor Darren Criss — had killed at least four other people on a bloody journey before reaching Miami Beach. He committed suicide a few days after slaying Versace.

Although most filming took place in Versace’s Florida mansion, part of it is being shot at the Fox Studio in Los Angeles, where the luxurious home was recreated to the last detail, including its Greco-Roman paintings.

The first season of the American Crime Story mini- series, which focused on fallen American football star O. J. Simpson, got rave reviews and won several awards. —