Emmy-Nominated Actress Kelly Jenrette Inspires Compton Early College HS Scholars
Emmy-nominated actress Kelly Jenrette recently spoke to a group of Compton Early College High School scholars recently, thanks to the partnership with the Saving Our Daughters Foundation. Jenrette, known for her roles in critically acclaimed shows like The Handmaid’s Tale, All American: Homecoming, and This Is Us, shared her inspiring journey in the entertainment industry with the 30-plus students. During her visit, she opened up about the highs and lows of her acting career, providing valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in Hollywood.
One of the highlights of the visit was an interactive session where Kelly invited several students to join her on stage. The scholars had the chance to read scripts and perform scenes from All American, bringing their own personalities to the characters. Jenrette encouraged the students to make the roles their own, reminding them that their unique voices are what make a character come to life. “I try to tell the truth of a character, but I don’t judge them,” she shared, offering a glimpse into her creative process. It was an unforgettable experience that left the students inspired and motivated to explore their own talents.
Jenrette’s journey to success wasn’t always easy, and she was candid about the challenges she faced along the way. Growing up, she was inspired by shows like The Cosby Show, where she saw people who looked like her on screen, fueling her passion for storytelling.
Moving to Los Angeles was a leap of faith that took years to pay off. “It took me five years to say, okay, I might make it in LA,” she revealed. She emphasized the importance of building a community and shared how creating a support group called AHA (Actors Helping Actors) helped her stay grounded during tough times. “Create your own lane,” she advised the students, “learn from others, but make your own path.”
Beyond acting, Kelly has also ventured into writing and producing. She spoke passionately about her recent work behind the scenes, including a $50,000 grant she received to produce her own short film.
Working with a Black female showrunner on All American: Homecoming was a game-changer for her, as it was the first time she felt truly seen and supported on set. “It was the first time I worked on a show with a Black female creator. I felt seen and safe,” Jenrette said, highlighting the importance of representation in the industry.
Her visit to Compton Early College High School was a powerful reminder of the impact of following your dreams, staying authentic, and lifting others up along the way.