Early Life and Background
Kelly Kamalelehua Smith, known professionally as Kelly Preston, was born on October 13, 1962, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her middle name, “Kamalelehua,” reflects her Hawaiian heritage, meaning “garden of lehuas.” Preston’s early years were shaped by international experiences, as her family moved to different parts of the world, including Iraq and Australia.
Tragedy struck at an early age when she lost her father at just four years old. Her mother later remarried, and Kelly was raised by her stepfather, Peter Palzis. She attended Pembroke School in Adelaide, Australia, before returning to Hawaii, where she graduated from Punahou School in 1980. Her passion for the arts led her to the University of Southern California, where she studied drama and theater, setting the stage for a successful acting career.
Breakthrough Roles and Rise to Stardom
Kelly Preston’s entry into Hollywood was serendipitous—she was discovered by a fashion photographer at the age of 16. This opened doors for her in modeling and eventually led to acting opportunities. In 1985, she landed her first major roles in the films Mischief and Secret Admirer, both of which showcased her charisma and comedic timing.
Her career gained momentum in the late 1980s and 1990s. One of her most notable early roles was in Twins (1988), where she starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito. The film was a box-office hit and cemented her reputation in Hollywood. Another defining moment in her career came in 1996 when she played Avery Bishop in Jerry Maguire, opposite Tom Cruise. Her performance was widely praised for its mix of intensity and wit.
Marriage to John Travolta
Kelly Preston and John Travolta’s love story began in 1987 on the set of The Experts. Their chemistry quickly turned into romance, leading to their marriage in 1991. Due to complications with their initial wedding officiated by a French Scientology minister, the couple held a second ceremony later.
Throughout their marriage, Preston and Travolta were one of Hollywood’s most admired couples. They collaborated on various projects, including the sci-fi film Battlefield Earth (2000) and Gotti (2018). Their relationship was characterized by unwavering support, with Travolta often expressing his deep admiration for Preston.
Personal Challenges and Resilience
Despite their successful careers and loving marriage, Preston and Travolta faced immense personal challenges. Their eldest son, Jett, was diagnosed with autism and suffered from frequent seizures. In 2009, Jett tragically passed away at the age of 16 while the family was on vacation in the Bahamas.
The loss of their son was a devastating blow, but the couple turned their grief into advocacy, raising awareness about autism. Their openness about their struggles inspired many and contributed to increased conversations about autism support and care.
Later Career and Final Projects
In her later years, Kelly Preston continued to take on diverse roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She appeared in films like Death Sentence (2007) and Old Dogs (2009), acting alongside her husband, John Travolta. One of her memorable appearances was in Maroon 5’s music video for “She Will Be Loved,” where her heartfelt portrayal added emotional depth to the song.
Her final film, Off the Rails (2021), was released posthumously. It served as a touching farewell to an actress who had spent decades captivating audiences with her performances.
Battle with Cancer and Passing
In 2018, Kelly Preston was diagnosed with breast cancer. She chose to battle her illness privately, supported by her close family. Despite her condition, she continued to be present for her husband and children, showing immense strength and love.
On July 12, 2020, Preston passed away at the age of 57 in Clearwater, Florida. John Travolta announced her passing in an emotional tribute, acknowledging her courage and unwavering love. Tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans, mourning the loss of a beloved actress.
Legacy and Impact
Kelly Preston’s impact goes beyond her filmography. She was a woman of grace, resilience, and authenticity. Her ability to bring warmth to every role she played left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Her advocacy for autism awareness continues to inspire many. Through her life’s work and the love she shared with her family, she remains a source of strength and inspiration.
Conclusion
Kelly Preston’s life was a testament to talent, love, and resilience. From her early days in Hollywood to her lasting legacy, she touched the lives of many with her performances and personal journey. As fans continue to celebrate her work, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she inspired.
