Kelly Preston was a beloved American actress known for her roles in iconic films and her marriage to actor John Travolta. Born on October 13, 1962, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kelly had a successful acting career, starring in over 60 films and TV shows. Her roles in movies like Twins (1988) and Jerry Maguire (1996) cemented her place in Hollywood. Unfortunately, she passed away on July 12, 2020, after a private battle with breast cancer, leaving behind a legacy of work and cherished memories.
Throughout her career, Kelly Preston made a lasting impact, not only through her performances but also through her contributions to charitable causes. She and John Travolta shared a deep bond, and their family, including their three children, was central to her life. Kelly’s death was mourned by fans worldwide, and as of 2024, her net worth at the time of her death was estimated at $180 million.
Key Takeaways
- Kelly Preston was an accomplished actress with over 60 film and TV credits.
- She was married to John Travolta, and they had three children together.
- Her most notable roles were in Twins and Jerry Maguire.
- She passed away in 2020 after battling breast cancer privately for two years.
- Kelly Preston’s estimated net worth at her death was $180 million.
Kelly Preston’s Acting Career – A Journey from "Twins" to "Jerry Maguire"
Kelly Preston’s career in Hollywood spanned decades, and her versatility as an actress allowed her to play a wide range of characters. She gained fame with her role in the 1988 comedy Twins, where she played Marnie Mason, the love interest of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character. This film was a box office hit, grossing over $216 million worldwide.
Her next notable role was in Jerry Maguire (1996), where she portrayed Avery Bishop, the fiery ex-fiancée of Tom Cruise’s character. Her performance in this film earned her critical praise and showcased her ability to bring complex characters to life on screen.
Kelly Preston’s Noteworthy Movies
Kelly Preston’s filmography includes a mix of comedies, dramas, and family films. Some of her standout performances are in:
- Mischief (1985)
- Twins (1988)
- Jerry Maguire (1996)
- For Love of the Game (1999)
- The Cat in the Hat (2003)
Each of these movies highlights her diverse acting talent, and her ability to adapt to different genres kept audiences engaged for decades.
Kelly Preston’s Family Life with John Travolta
Kelly Preston met John Travolta while filming The Experts in 1989. They got married on September 12, 1991, and their marriage remained one of Hollywood’s most enduring love stories. The couple had three children together: Jett, Ella, and Benjamin.
The family faced tragedy in 2009 when their eldest son, Jett, passed away at the age of 16. Jett’s death deeply affected both Kelly and John, but they remained strong as a family unit. Kelly’s love for her family was evident in her interviews and public appearances, and she often spoke about the joys of motherhood.
Kelly Preston’s Battle with Breast Cancer and Her Death
Kelly Preston’s death on July 12, 2020, came as a shock to many because she had kept her two-year battle with breast cancer private. Her husband, John Travolta, announced her passing in a heartfelt Instagram post, where he described her as a brave and loving woman. Her strength and grace during her illness were admired by many, and her death left a void in the hearts of those who loved her.
Table: Key Life Events of Kelly Preston
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kelly Kamalelehua Smith (Kelly Preston) |
| Born | October 13, 1962, Honolulu, Hawaii |
| Net Worth at Death | Estimated $180 million |
| Famous for | Roles in Twins and Jerry Maguire |
| Married to | John Travolta (Married in 1991) |
| Children | Jett, Ella, and Benjamin Travolta |
| Cause of Death | Breast cancer |
| Death | July 12, 2020, at age 57 |
Kelly Preston’s Early Years and Rise to Stardom
Kelly Preston’s early career was marked by her youthful beauty and acting charm, which helped her stand out in Hollywood. Born in Hawaii, Kelly always had a love for the arts. She started acting in the mid-1980s, with her first major role in Mischief (1985). This led to more significant roles that showcased her range as an actress.
In Twins, she won over audiences with her humor and chemistry with Arnold Schwarzenegger, making it one of her most memorable roles. In Jerry Maguire, she demonstrated her ability to handle more intense and dramatic roles, which earned her even more respect in the industry.
Kelly Preston in "The Cat in the Hat" (2003)
In the live-action adaptation of The Cat in the Hat (2003), Kelly Preston played the role of Joan Walden, the mother of two mischievous children. This family-friendly film, based on Dr. Seuss’s famous book, was a fun departure from some of her more serious roles, and it introduced her to a younger audience.
How Did Kelly Preston Die?
Kelly Preston died of breast cancer on July 12, 2020, at the age of 57. Her battle with the disease had been kept private, and it wasn’t widely known until her husband announced her passing. She had shown incredible courage throughout her illness and was remembered for her positivity and strength.
FAQ
When did Kelly Preston pass away?
Kelly Preston passed away on July 12, 2020, after battling breast cancer for two years.
What was Kelly Preston’s most famous movie role?
Kelly Preston is best known for her roles in Twins (1988) and Jerry Maguire (1996).
How did Kelly Preston die?
Kelly Preston died of complications related to breast cancer.
What was Kelly Preston’s net worth at the time of her death?
At the time of her death in 2020, Kelly Preston’s net worth was estimated to be around $180 million.
Did Kelly Preston and John Travolta have children?
Yes, Kelly Preston and John Travolta had three children: Jett, Ella, and Benjamin.
What movie did Kelly Preston star in with Arnold Schwarzenegger?
Kelly Preston starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1988 film Twins.
Kelly Preston’s legacy continues to live on through her memorable film roles, her family, and the countless lives she touched both on and off the screen.