In the heartfelt Lifetime movie List of a Lifetime, actress Kelly Hu portrays a woman who embarks on a journey to reconnect with the daughter she gave up for adoption after being diagnosed with breast cancer. This film, part of Lifetime’s annual Stop Breast Cancer for Life initiative, highlights the emotional and physical challenges faced by those battling breast cancer while celebrating the strength of the human spirit.
Kelly Hu, now 53, shared her thoughts with Closer, expressing her deep connection with her character. "This role was incredibly rewarding, yet it demanded so much emotionally. Her story is layered—losing her parents at a young age, navigating foster care, and the life-altering decision to give up her child for adoption. It was an intense and humbling experience," she explained. Her portrayal brings authenticity and depth to the screen, captivating audiences with her powerful performance.
Sharing the screen with fellow actress Shannen Doherty, who openly shared her personal battle with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in 2020, Kelly reflected on the experience. "Shannen brought a level of authenticity to the film that only comes from lived experience. She was open and generous, which made our collaboration both meaningful and inspiring," Kelly remarked.
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A Journey Through Acting and Entrepreneurship
Born and raised in Hawaii, Kelly Hu’s journey in entertainment began with her debut on the hit TV series Growing Pains. Her career has since blossomed, with notable roles on Nash Bridges, Hawaii Five-O, and the blockbuster The Scorpion King. Beyond acting, Kelly has ventured into entrepreneurship, launching her own T-shirt line, 33 Edge, and dedicating her time to philanthropy.
From Pageants to the Screen
Kelly’s initial foray into the entertainment world came through beauty pageants, where she won the title of Miss Teen USA. This experience paved the way for her acting career. "I entered the world of pageants with the hope of advancing my modeling career, but it led me to unexpected opportunities. Winning that title opened doors I never imagined, including landing my first major role on Growing Pains," she recalled.
The Transition to Acting
Transitioning from pageantry to acting wasn’t always smooth, but Kelly’s passion for storytelling and her dedication to her craft have set her apart. "I knew from a young age that I wanted to perform. I would entertain my neighbors with impromptu shows, and that love never faded. When I moved to Los Angeles, I carried with me the lessons I learned in drama class and a dream that was finally within reach," she shared.
Family Support and Career Ambitions
Though her mother was initially hesitant about her pursuing acting, Kelly’s success in pageants and her early TV roles convinced her otherwise. "My mom was skeptical at first, but seeing me win Miss Teen USA and land a role on Growing Pains changed her perspective. We agreed I’d give it five years, and if it didn’t work out, I’d go back to school. She even kept a room ready for me all these years!" she joked.
What’s Next for Kelly Hu?
Kelly remains passionate about acting and creating meaningful content. "There’s something magical about being on set, about collaborating with talented individuals to bring a story to life. I’m incredibly grateful for every opportunity I’ve had and continue to have," she expressed. When asked about her proudest moment, Kelly fondly remembered her role in The Scorpion King>. "It was the first time I headlined a studio film, and it meant the world to my family, especially my dad, who got to see me shine before he passed."
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Off-screen, Kelly enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and staying connected to her Hawaiian roots. "Traveling has always been a passion of mine. It’s a chance to step out of my comfort zone, immerse myself in unfamiliar environments, and learn from others. It’s where I feel most alive," she said. Despite the pandemic pausing her adventures, Kelly remains hopeful about future travels.
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Staying fit and healthy is also important to Kelly, who prefers a balanced approach. "I focus on eating well and cooking at home. During the pandemic, I even took up gardening on my balcony, which was incredibly rewarding," she added.
Community and Philanthropy
Kelly remains deeply connected to her community, actively participating in fundraisers for local charities like Best Buddies Hawaii. "Giving back is essential. Whether it’s through fundraising or simply lending a hand, I believe in making a positive impact wherever I can," she emphasized.
Though her visits to Hawaii have become less frequent since her parents moved to Las Vegas, the islands will always hold a special place in her heart. "Hawaii is my home. It’s where I grew up, where my family and friends are. No matter where life takes me, my roots will always be there," she concluded.
