Please introduce yourself. What do you do? Why? What do you want people to know about you?
I am Kennedy.
I am an actress, a model, a public speaker, a dancer. I am a daughter, a girlfriend, a friend, a cancer survivor, and an advocate. I have Down syndrome. Mostly I’m just me.
I like to sleep late, drink coffee, make TikToks, laugh with my friends, and shop. A lot. I feel like everyone sees something different when they see me, but I am just a girl, chasing her dreams in LA, like everyone else out here.
What qualities make you different and unique from everyone else in the industry?
Well, I DO work hard and I AM amazing… though I would like to meet a talking hamster.
I guess I’m unique because I’m striving to break down barriers in the entertainment industry. I’m auditioning for roles that maybe don’t fit the director’s original vision, and hoping they’ll see I can do it anyway.
I’m pushing boundaries and showing casting directors what actors with disabilities can do. I hope. One audition at a time.
Describe THAT moment when you realized you’re doing what you were born to do.
I’ve always loved the camera, from the day I was born.
My mom has many stories. But, my first day on a real movie set, seeing the excitement and the fun, and even the boring times when we had to hurry up and wait, were all magic!
The best part of course is the wardrobe! Trying on clothes, seeing if they’ll let me choose my own look, and becoming someone new, if only for a few hours… then off to hair and makeup for more pampering! I love it all! I want to do it every day of my life.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve had to go through and how did you grow through it?
Well, I mean, I beat childhood cancer. And cancer sucks so… I was little and don’t remember most of it but my mom says I was super sick.
The year after that I had spine surgery and had to wear a halo. I kind of remember that. But even now I have to deal with people counting me out because I have Down syndrome. Sometimes people won’t even give me a chance. And that’s frustrating.
It makes me stronger and I push through… changing hearts and minds one person at a time!
Who are the TOP 3 people you’d want to meet that could elevate your career or business? Why these specific individuals?
Shonda Rimes because I know I’d be amazing in one of her shows.
Mandy Moore because I’ve been looking for her for YEARS! I’m like 2 degrees away a few different ways. I would just love to work with her!
And Megan Trainor. I’m not a singer, but I’m pretty sure we need to be best friends. She also needs to babysit my cat. But that’s a story for another day.
Drop your social media links.
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@kennedyjean04
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@kennedyjean04
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/@kennedyjean04