We recently connected with Jackie Kelly and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jackie, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
This is something I’m still working on every day! In the early years of my acting career, I almost never felt qualified to be bringing someone else’s characters to life. But with every film set I step foot onto comes a little more confidence. I’m a pretty firm believer in doing things that frighten me. I’ve found that the more anxiety-inducing responsibilities I take on, the more proficient I feel in my craft. Experience is everything. Do the things that scare you.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am an actress and writer, primarily working in the horror genre. Though I spent my formative years in live theater, I’ve found my calling in independent film.
I’ve been working on the indie film scene for almost a decade now and have been on some really incredible adventures in this career. Acting has taken me all over the United States and allowed me the opportunity to meet and collaborate with some really brilliant people. I’ve learned and laughed and cried so much in this vocation and it’s shaped who I am in every imaginable way.
In addition to having multiple acting jobs slated for this year, I am also gearing up to take a pretty major creative leap in 2024… I’m directing my first feature film! I couldn’t be more excited about the team I’ve started to assemble on this project. And though the entire process can seem daunting, I feel like all of my experience has been leading me to this film.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1.) Ambition. I’ve always been a dreamer. And it can be really disheartening to face rejection over and over, but it is an inherent part of the creative’s journey. I’m so glad I’ve continued down this path despite its obvious challenges. All I want to do is create characters and tell stories, and I intend to keep doing that for as long as I live.
2.) Collaboration. I am not the most talented or intelligent performer in the world. All of my best ideas and achievements have been made possible by the influence and creativity of my closest friends and collaborators. I’ve found a circle of individuals that I really love working with and they’re a huge reason I have any semblance of a career.
3.) An “I don’t give a $%@!” attitude. Don’t worry about people who won’t like your performance or your movie or your book or whatever. Do it for yourself. Because even if you try to create the safest, most palatable piece of art, someone will still hate it. Your audience will find you. Make the art that you want to make.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Cry. Just kidding. Kind of.
I find it is helpful to sit down and talk through things with other creative folks, namely my husband. He also works in film and has a deep understanding of the craft and challenges of this career-path. I have some really wonderful friends and family members, who also happen to be my biggest cheerleaders.
I also read a lot and watch a lot of movies. Consuming fiction has a calming effect on me and keeps me feeling inspired.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6475126/
- Instagram: @actressjackiekelly
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chubbzo/
