Erin Kellyman’s Journey to Stardom
For British actress Erin Kellyman, a few months spent in New York became a transformative experience, thanks in part to her interactions with June Squibb, the 95-year-old screen icon she stars with in Eleanor the Great. This dynamic duo shared significant bonding moments during their eight-week shooting schedule that not only enriched the film but also added a personal touch to Kellyman’s time in the bustling city.
Building a Close Friendship
Living in the same apartment building, Kellyman and Squibb had the opportunity to forge a close friendship. The two would often visit each other’s homes in a friendly, “Friends”-style manner. According to Kellyman, attending the weekly dinner parties hosted by Squibb was both a delight and an invaluable learning experience. “It just felt like girls being girls. There’s no age on that,” said the 26-year-old actress, emphasizing the authentic connection they shared.
This bond was crucial as the narrative of Eleanor the Great revolves around the friendship between Squibb’s character, Eleanor, and Kellyman’s character, Nina, who is a journalism student. Eleanor, dealing with her own losses, relocates from Florida to New York, where she unexpectedly finds solace in her friendship with Nina. The story echoes the universal theme of friendship across generations, spotlighting emotional depth and personal growth.
The Audition Experience
Kellyman’s journey to landing the role was swift. She auditioned in December 2023 and began filming just a few weeks later in February. Her initial meetings with director Scarlett Johansson took place over Zoom, where they worked on the script together. Kellyman, who had been mimicking American accents since childhood by watching shows like Hannah Montana, found herself putting her skills to the test during this process.
Growing up in Tamworth, England, Kellyman was an anxious child. Initially leaning toward a career in gymnastics, she faced the stark realization from her mother that it wasn’t a viable path for her. After a brief stint with modeling, she discovered her passion for acting at the age of 12 when she auditioned for a part that involved improvisation. “I left that audition, and I was like, ‘Mom, whatever that was, I want to do that,’” she states, recalling the moment when she first felt truly comfortable in herself.
A Rising Star
After joining the Television Workshop in Nottingham, Kellyman began to gain recognition. Her role in the Channel 4 comedy Raised by Wolves marked her entry into the television spotlight, which paved the way for a significant career leap into the Star Wars universe with Solo: A Star Wars Story. The casting process for the film was rigorous, requiring multiple auditions and physical stunt tests. This ordeal culminated in a screen test with Alden Ehrenreich, which Kellyman described as nerve-wracking.
When Solo premiered in 2018, audiences were shocked to discover that the masked character Enfys Nest was portrayed by a woman, which challenged preconceived ideas about gender representation in such roles. While the film didn’t become a blockbuster hit, it catapulted Kellyman into a promising trajectory in Hollywood.
LGBTQ Representation and Independent Projects
Kellyman’s role in Willow, a Disney+ series, further showcased her range, allowing her to explore themes of LGBTQ representation alongside co-star Ruby Cruz. This aspect of storytelling is essential for Kellyman, who identifies as gay, and she appreciates the progressive steps the industry is taking toward inclusivity.
Her work extends beyond mainstream films and includes a notable role in the Marvel series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Despite her involvement in high-profile projects, Kellyman treasures her participation in indie films like Eleanor the Great, which provide her with depth and character exploration. The film’s poignant nature and emotional themes resonated deeply with her, making it one of her most significant roles to date.
Concluding Thoughts on the Film
Throughout the filming process, Kellyman noted the positivity permeating the production. “The energy was really high, and people were having fun despite the movie being so sad,” she remarked. She was particularly impressed with Johansson’s oversight and involvement in every department, a testament to her dedication as a director.
As the Cannes Film Festival approaches, where Eleanor the Great is set to debut, Kellyman reflects on her experiences with Squibb. The anticipation of seeing the film for the first time filled her with nostalgia for the moments they shared. One cherished memory involves a daily shoot at a diner, where they spent hours chatting, allowing them to further connect both as individuals and as actors.
Erin Kellyman’s journey reflects the powerful narratives of friendship, discovery, and representation. As she continues to broaden her horizons, there’s no doubt that she will leave a lasting mark on the film industry.