Kelly Lynch: From "Drugstore Cowboy" To Today's Roles

Ever wonder what it takes to conquer Hollywood, not just as a fleeting star, but as a mainstay whose talent transcends genres? Kelly Lynch, an American actress and model, has done just that, carving a niche for herself with captivating performances and a chameleon-like ability to embody diverse roles.

From gracing the silver screen in the late 1980s to captivating audiences in television series, Kelly Lynch’s journey is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and sheer talent. She burst onto the scene with her critically acclaimed role in Gus Van Sant's groundbreaking film, "Drugstore Cowboy" (1989), earning an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Female Lead. This marked the beginning of a prolific career that has seen her navigate the worlds of independent cinema and mainstream blockbusters with equal aplomb.

Kelly Lynch: Biographical and Professional Overview
Full Name Kelly Ann Lynch
Birth Date January 31, 1959
Birth Place Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
Nationality American
Occupation Actress and Model
Years Active 1983 – Present
Spouse Mitch Glazer (m. 1992)
Career Highlights
Breakthrough RoleDrugstore Cowboy (1989)
Notable FilmsCocktail (1988), Road House (1989), Curly Sue (1991), Charlie's Angels (2000)
Television RolesThe L Word, 90210, Magic City, Mr. Mercedes
Awards & Nominations Independent Spirit Award Nomination for Best Female Lead (Drugstore Cowboy)
Additional Information
Early Career Started with a small role at the Guthrie Theater; Modeled for Elite Modeling Agency
Parents Barbara (modern dancer) and Robert Lynch (restaurateur)
Net Worth Estimated $20 million
Reference Kelly Lynch on IMDb

Born on January 31, 1959, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kelly Ann Lynch's upbringing was a blend of artistic influence and entrepreneurial spirit. Her mother, Barbara, was a modern dancer, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the arts, while her father, Robert Lynch, a restaurateur, provided a glimpse into the world of business and hard work. This unique combination of influences would shape her into the versatile and grounded actress she is today. She later moved to Golden Valley, Minnesota.

Lynch's journey into the world of acting wasn't a straightforward one. Before gracing the silver screen, she briefly worked as a flight attendant. However, fate intervened when she was scouted by a modeling agent, leading to a contract with the prestigious Elite Modeling Agency. This foray into the world of modeling provided her with valuable experience in front of the camera and honed her natural grace and poise. But her true passion lay in acting, and she pursued her dreams with unwavering determination.

Her early acting training included studying under the tutelage of renowned acting teacher Sanford Meisner, whose teachings emphasized emotional authenticity and truthful performance. This rigorous training provided her with the foundation she needed to tackle complex and challenging roles. She began her acting career with a small job at the Guthrie Theater, a regional theater known for its commitment to artistic excellence. This experience gave her a taste of the stage and solidified her desire to pursue acting as a full-time career.

The late 1980s marked a pivotal moment in Kelly Lynch’s career. She landed her breakthrough role in "Cocktail" (1988), a box office hit starring Tom Cruise. While her role in "Cocktail" brought her wider recognition, it was her performance in Gus Van Sant's "Drugstore Cowboy" (1989) that truly showcased her acting prowess. In the film, she played Dianne, a drug addict navigating the seedy underbelly of the American Northwest. Her portrayal was raw, honest, and deeply moving, earning her critical acclaim and an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Female Lead. Critics lauded her ability to capture the character's vulnerability and resilience, solidifying her status as a rising star in Hollywood.

The year 1989 proved to be a banner year for Lynch, as she also starred opposite Patrick Swayze in the cult classic "Road House." In this action-packed film, she played Dr. Elizabeth Clay, a physician who becomes romantically involved with Swayze's character, a bouncer hired to clean up a rowdy bar. While "Road House" was a departure from the gritty realism of "Drugstore Cowboy," it showcased Lynch's versatility and ability to hold her own in a male-dominated action film. Her performance added a layer of emotional depth to the film, making her character more than just a romantic interest.

Throughout the 1990s, Kelly Lynch continued to appear in a diverse range of films, showcasing her ability to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles. She starred in "Curly Sue" (1991), a family-friendly comedy directed by John Hughes, playing Grey Ellison, a successful lawyer who learns to embrace life's unexpected detours. This role demonstrated her comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences of all ages. She also took on more challenging roles in films like "Virtuosity," "Imaginary Crimes," and "Three of Hearts," further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented actress.

In 1992, Kelly Lynch married writer and producer Mitch Glazer, marking the beginning of a long and successful personal and professional partnership. Glazer is known for his work on films like "Scrooged" and "Lost in Translation," as well as the television series "Magic City," in which Lynch also starred. Their marriage has been a source of strength and stability for Lynch, allowing her to navigate the often-turbulent waters of Hollywood with grace and resilience.

As the new millennium dawned, Kelly Lynch continued to evolve as an actress, taking on roles that pushed her creative boundaries. In 2000, she appeared in "Charlie's Angels," a big-budget action comedy based on the popular television series. While her role in "Charlie's Angels" was smaller than some of her previous roles, it allowed her to be part of a high-profile project and showcase her ability to work within a large ensemble cast. She also continued to explore independent cinema, appearing in films that challenged and inspired her.

In addition to her film work, Kelly Lynch has also made a significant impact on television. She is perhaps best known for her role as Ivan Aycock in the groundbreaking Showtime series "The L Word," which explored the lives and relationships of a group of lesbian women. Her portrayal of Ivan, a transgender man, was both sensitive and powerful, earning her critical acclaim and a GLAAD Media Award nomination. This role allowed her to shed light on important social issues and connect with a diverse audience.

She also had recurring roles in the popular teen drama "90210" and the Starz series "Magic City," further demonstrating her versatility and appeal across different genres and demographics. Her role in "Magic City" allowed her to work alongside her husband, Mitch Glazer, who created and wrote the series. In recent years, Lynch has continued to work steadily in both film and television, appearing in projects like "Mr. Mercedes" and "High Low."

Kelly Lynch's career is not just a story of professional success; it's also a testament to her resilience and personal strength. In an interview, she revealed that she had faced a near-death experience involving her legs, which profoundly impacted her perspective on life. This experience made her appreciate each day as a gift and fueled her passion for her work. She approaches her roles with a renewed sense of purpose, seeking out projects that resonate with her on a deeper level.

From her early days as a model to her critically acclaimed performances in film and television, Kelly Lynch has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. She has worked with some of the most talented directors and actors in Hollywood, and her contributions to the world of cinema and television have been significant. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres, her commitment to authentic performances, and her unwavering dedication to her craft have made her a beloved and respected figure in the industry.

Throughout her career, Kelly Lynch has amassed over 50 film and television credits, showcasing her incredible range and longevity. She has consistently challenged herself with diverse roles, proving that she is more than just a pretty face. Her performances are marked by a rare combination of vulnerability, strength, and intelligence, making her a compelling and captivating presence on screen. Whether she's playing a drug addict, a doctor, a lawyer, or a transgender man, she brings a level of authenticity and depth to her characters that is truly remarkable.

Born in Golden Valley, Minnesota, on January 31, 1959, Kelly Lynch's journey to Hollywood stardom is a story of talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. She has overcome obstacles, embraced challenges, and remained true to herself throughout her career. Her legacy as an actress and model is secure, and her influence on the entertainment industry will continue to be felt for years to come. Her net worth is estimated to be around $20 million, a testament to her successful and enduring career.

She is an American actress and model. She works for Hollywood movies and American television series. She featured her role as Dianne in the film 'Drugstore Cowboy' in 1989 and her role as Roberta Bean in the film 'The Beans of Egypt, Maine'.She is an actress, known for her work in Drugstore Cowboy (1989), Road House (1989) and Charlie's Angels (2000).She is married to Mitch Glazer since December 6, 1992.

Kelly Lynch's journey is inspiring. From her early life and career beginnings to her iconic performances, she remains a prominent figure in Hollywood. She stands as a symbol of versatility and perseverance in a competitive industry. Kelly Lynch is a distinguished American actress and model, renowned for her versatile performances across film and television.

Kicking off this spring reawakening is Modernism Week (modernismweek.com), which once again will celebrate midcentury design in person—actress Kelly Lynch and producer Mitch Glazer are devotees of the festival—beginning April 8. H3K Design’s reimagining of a 1956 Lawrence Lapham house, Grace Home Furnishings.

See Kelly Lynch full list of movies and TV shows from their career. Find where to watch Kelly Lynch's latest movies and TV shows actress 54 credits.

Kelly lynch hi res stock photography and images Alamy

Kelly lynch hi res stock photography and images Alamy

05 November 2009 Hollywood, California Actress Kelly Lynch arrives to

05 November 2009 Hollywood, California Actress Kelly Lynch arrives to

Kelly lynch hi res stock photography and images Alamy

Kelly lynch hi res stock photography and images Alamy

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