Kelley Poling wears a dress by Hermès

Kelley Poling: A Rising Talent

BY BRIDGETTA TOMARCHIO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLE RUEN

Cleveland, Ohio-born Kelley Poling has transitioned from being one of the top bathing suit and athletic models of the late 90s to work as an actress in film and television today. As a model, Kelley worked on campaigns with Hawaiian Tropic, Nike, Yamaha, and Harley Davidson. For a year between her modeling and acting career, she was on tour with Madonna.

Having grown up in a military family, she is also a marksman with handguns, rifles, and archery. Kelley is also trained in automatic weapons and martial arts techniques specific to film and television.

When not filming, she travels the world as a competitive Classical Fencer and is proficient with foil, small-sword, dueling sword, rapier, and saber. Poling has been training for more than 20 years in New York with Maestri Jeannette Acosta Martinez and Ray Martinez of the prestigious Martinez Academy of Arms.

For fun, Kelly surfs, runs 5k races, and performs Celtic/Scottish music.

BT: We’d love to learn more about your backstory on how you got into the entertainment industry.

KP: I did my first community play when I was eight years old and realized I love to make an audience laugh. The rest of my school days were spent in athletics and studying, but those work ethics set me up to be competitive in the entertainment field later. Because I was in such great shape as an athlete, it was easy to be a model for bathing suits and athletic wear. I also have always had a great love of adventure and daring athletics, so I made the perfect model for surfing, jet skis, mountain bikes, running, etc. I wasn’t afraid to break a nail or get dirty, which made everything much more fun. Then an accident put me in the hospital for a while and sent me on my way to the corporate world for years, but I never gave up the adventure and athletics; I just stayed out of the spotlight for a while. Now, I’m baaaack!

Kelley wears a Large Vortex Pendant by JimEye Designs

BT: In your younger years, you modeled for Hawaiian Tropic, Nike, Yamaha, and Harley Davidson, to name a few. What campaign was your favorite and why?

KP: Hawaiian Tropic. Look it up. You will see why. It checked all the boxes. Fun, adventure, friendships, celebrities, athletics, world travel, everything a 20-something girl like me could ask for.

BT: How did you get to be on tour with Madonna, and what was that like? Can you tell us a few stories?

KP: Most of the hard work of getting a job in the entertainment industry is who knows you and do they like you. I met the camera crew hired by Madonna in Big Bear, California, doing a roast for Chris Collinsworth. I was joking around with John Wayne’s son, Patrick, for a skit we were working on to be filmed at the top of the mountain. I was in my bikini and in probably one of the first pairs of Uggs ever made standing in the snow – freezing. The camera guys were trying to help out because they saw me trying to stay warm while we were figuring it out. Some of the best friendships start in times like that. It was those guys that got me hired on tour with Madonna. I was hired as the Chef’s assistant and ended up as a stage model for one song! We had so much fun. I still have my denim band jacket.

BT: How did you get into martial arts and weaponry?

KP: I grew up with a military father. I love my whole family (really), but I’m definitely a Daddy’s girl. He had me make my own ammunition, shoot my own gun, taught me archery, gave me my first sword, and taught me everything about handling weapons safely and smartly. I never lost interest in training in them. Swords are definitely my favorite, however. I also added my own training in Fencing and a few Eastern martial arts as the years passed. Martial arts have been my world since I was a little girl.

Kelley wears a custom handmade fencing jacket by Sarah Lassalle of Lassalle Designs, fencing pants by Triplette Fencing, shoes by Doc Martens, and holds a smallsword by Cult of Athena

BT: Wow, that’s amazing! What specifically intrigued you about Fencing? Tell us what it’s like to train and become a competitive Classical Fencer.

KP: I have had a sword in my hand since I was a child. I just didn’t know how to use them well. When I became independent in the business world and had enough money to seek out what I considered the best people to train me in the swords I loved, I found the Martinez Academy of Arms in New York City. Maestro Ramon Martinez and his wife, Maestro Jeannette Acosta-Martinez, are living legends in the sword world. The depth of knowledge it takes to become a good fencer and the years of training are astounding! What a challenge! It’s hard, so I love it.

BT: You’ve been a stuntwoman on various shows (Outlander, etc.); what is that like being a female stunt person in a male-dominated field? Do you feel you need to train harder?

KP: Yes! First, stunt people do NOT get the recognition they deserve in the first place, no matter what gender they identify with. Second, you have to command respect by doing a really good job at what you are there to do. You have to be a safe partner, know what you are doing, and have the experience to do it well. Then you have to do it extra, extra well because you are seen as the physically weaker sex.

I train weapons and choreography with a Hollywood Legend, Anthony De Longis. He is an actor, whip master, swordmaster, and weapons expert at De Longis Performance and Combative Arts. He’s also a Member of the Black Belt Hall of Fame, USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame, International Knife Throwers Hall of Fame, and Ultimate Warriors Hall of Fame- so I think I’m in good hands.

Also, I love period pieces. There were not too many women wielding swords back in the day – some, but it wasn’t common. Sometimes I had to dress like a man. I’m glad Hollywood is changing to become more inclusive all the way around.

Kelley wears a bathing suit by Sociala, boots by Chic, and a necklace by Pamela Love

BT: Do you have any advice for women in male-dominated fields?

KP: Yes. Put blinders on and just do your thing. Don’t look back, don’t look to the side, just move forward. Do really good work, and it will speak for itself. Also, get on the boards and change a few policies. You’re smart. You can do it.

BT: How do you feel about actors doing their own stunts? Do you think it’s safe, or should every actor have a well-trained stunt double?

KP: I love to see actors doing some of their own stunts. I think all actors should have a little stunt training. HOWEVER, there are some stunts that take a lifetime to train for. Do not do those stunts. Leave those stunts to the professionals.

BT: What is your training schedule like? Do you still compete?

KP: I train several times a week with swords and every day with moving martial arts like tai chi, wing chun, or weapon-based Filipino martial arts. I still compete in Classical Fencing. In fact, we have the Grand Assault coming up in November in New York. I’m training for that now. Right after that, in May, we are going to a castle about an hour outside of Paris to train for two weeks with various swords in the French School of Fencing.

BT: Have you always wanted to be an actress? How did your career transition?

KP: I didn’t know I wanted to be an actress until I was an actress. I actually wanted to be a doctor, astronaut, and ballerina. I studied for a long time for those three things while doing all this martial and entertaining stuff. I can’t remember if I woke up one morning and just said, “ What am I doing? I have to just be who I am!” I still love to study the solar system, medical anything still intrigues me, and I found the grace of the ballerina in Classical Fencing.

BT: Do you find it more challenging to start an acting career in your forties, or is it easier now that there are more roles for women, especially the availability for older parts?

KP: Yes. In the recent past, a woman in her 40s was done in Hollywood. No one wanted to represent you because your career was over! It’s still not easy, but I am happy to see more older actresses on screen now than ever before.

Also, It’s different to start your career later in life than in your 20s. I started my career seriously in my late teens and early 20s. The roles offered and how to get them were much different back then. It was easier to get an agent and be considered for lead roles. You had your whole career and many money-making opportunities in front of you.

You also had to contend with a few things that started the #metoo movement in Hollywood, which weren’t very pleasant to deal with when you’re a hot young thing in Hollywood. I’m lucky I never fell into those situations myself. I have no stories, thank goodness. When I returned to the industry, I had solid business knowledge, marketing skills, a lifetime of stunt training and real-world experience, and, luckily, a little physicality. I don’t have to contend with some of the negative situations of young Hollywood because I’m not young anymore. I’m older, wiser, more experienced, and quite a good businesswoman. I can play that up-and-coming 20s actor’s Mom like no other! I also make a killer trophy wife and secret agent/special op character.

BT: Do you find yourself stereotyped into the same types of roles? What are some ways to work through any stereotypes?

KP: In the beginning, yes. When you are hired, sometimes they just need to check a few boxes and make sure you can act. As the industry is getting to know me, I am finding roles that better suit me and can sink myself into. I love roles where I can use my stunt training, play my fiddle, or use an accent I have perfected. It’s such a big industry with many talented people. It takes time for people to realize your talents.

BT: If you could go back in time and change anything in your career, what would it be and why?

KP: I would have moved to Los Angeles a long time ago. I think you need a really good support system in this industry, and it takes a while to build it. I make friends easily, but –good friends are like sword training … it takes a long time for it to become part of who you are. When I book a job, it’s always cross-country calls to let my dearest-to-heart friends and family know.

BT: What advice do you give to middle-aged women who have a dream of changing careers?

KP: GO FOR IT! This isn’t a dress rehearsal. Don’t give up your responsibilities and throw caution to the wind; be brave enough to have faith in yourself and try it. The first step is the hardest.

BT: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give others trying to break into the entertainment industry?

KP: Ask yourself why you want to be an actor. Make a good reason. Study business and marketing, align yourself with the best teachers and coaches, and never stop training. You will get there. Never forget your “why.”

BT: You also play music! How did you get into playing Celtic and Scottish music? Did you become intrigued by your Irish heritage?

KP: I have a musical family. My mother is a country singer; my grandmother was a fantastic pianist (she could play ragtime better than anyone I have ever met), and my sister is a phenomenal singer. Now my niece is a fantastic singer and pianist. I’m ok. I love traditional and folk music because it’s usually played for people at parties for dancing and socializing. My family plays together on the holidays, and I had to play something! I do love playing my fiddle, no matter what the genre. Celtic is my heritage and my love, however.

BT: Let’s talk about self-care: mind, body, and spirit. On days that you have a busy schedule, how do you stay focused and grounded? Do you have a daily regimen?

KP: I always do something physical. On really hectic days, I like to go for a run to work it all out in my head and get in a good sweat. I also make calls to friends and family on a regular basis. Nothing brings you back like conversations with people that you love. I take a bath every night and make sure to spend a lot of time with my dog. He takes me out of myself because he’s spoiled and needs a lot of love and attention…and snacks.

BT: How do you keep balanced in your life and career? What advice could you offer others for peace of mind and balance in their lives?

KP: Don’t take work life too seriously. Make time for love. If you knew you would die soon, what would you do differently? I died and came back once already. I haven’t seen the world the same since. I try to live my life to the fullest, but that doesn’t always mean work and money.

Kelley wears a dress by Hervé Leger

BT: You look absolutely incredible. PLEASE let us in on your beauty secrets! What products are a MUST have? What is your daily/nightly skincare ritual?

KP: Thank you! I have never smoked or done a drug recreationally. I am active every day, and I sweat a lot. I take vitamins and try to eat healthy. I think those things are the best things to do for youthfulness. However, I also make sure I get all of my makeup off at night. I use ivory soap and an exfoliating makeup remover cloth. Then I use a serum by SkinMedica that I love called TNS serum, and depending on the season, a moisturizer and eye cream with Hyaluronic acid.

Right now, I’m really into a brand called Fillerina. I change my routine depending on the season, the location of the world I am in, and what fits in my carry-on without exploding. If I’m training hard somewhere, I try not to clog my pores and opt for a simple sunblock and lip balm.

Kelley wears a dress by Hervé Leger, and eyewear by Dynamikos

BT: You did this amazing photoshoot in Las Vegas. What was your regimen to get ready for this shoot? Do you find it different to get ready for photoshoots now than when you were younger/ What was so different from then to now?

KP: I love to get ready for big photo shoots now! When I was younger, I hated it. I was such a tomboy. It was a good day if you saw me with waterproof mascara on my lashes. Now, I find it like making art. I want to paint a pretty picture. I try to drink lots of water. I make sure my hair is clean, make sure the clothes fit correctly, and everything is properly functioning. I gather my accessories, dust off my shoes (even if I don’t wear any for the shoot), and put eye gel patches on to ward off any unnecessary wrinkles. Getting plenty of sleep and having a good support crew are also key to beauty.

The day I was shooting, it was windy and cold. I also had to change my clothes in the open or in a cold car. It was helpful to have someone there with a big warm blanket to keep me warm or shield me from the onlookers. Also, I had the most INCREDIBLE photographer, Isabelle Ruen. She was the key to everything in that shoot. She could make anyone look stunning.

BT: Who are some of your favorite designers to wear? Who would you LOVE to wear?

KP: I love vintage clothes from the 90s!I love vintage Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, Yves Saint Laurent, Azzedine Alaia, John Galliano, and Versace. Such drama! Such a time to be a fashion model! It’s tougher for me to choose a more modern designer these days. So many good ones! I have been wearing a lot of Monse lately. I love the fabric and angles.

BT: Where are your favorite places to dine in Las Vegas? Favorite shows that you recommend to others?

KP: I love a good restaurant like Joel Robuchon or Le Cirque before heading out to a Cirque Du Soleil show or a good concert like Van Morrison or Metallica. Such a good lineup for 2022.

BT: Let’s talk about playing opposite two Oscar-winning actors, Rebecca DeMornay and Kevin Spacey, in Peter Five Eight. What did you do when you found out you booked Jen in this film? Who did you call first?

KP: I couldn’t believe it! How did I get in the same movie as a supporting actor with a two-time Oscar-winning actor and an actress when I had been studying for another role!! I always call my Mom and Dad first. Always. Then my nieces.

BT: Were you nervous at the table read? What was it like filming on set with two seasoned actors?

KP: You get to see the brilliance in action. A lot starts to change in you. You suddenly realize what it is like to be working with people with acting ability at the highest level. Suddenly, it seems like their ability can seep into you a little for the time you are with them in the scene. They have the power to do that. To bring out a better actor in you. Then, when the director says cut, they are charming, funny, and real. I want more of that.

BT: This is a career-high for you. What’s next? What are all your upcoming projects?

KP: I am beginning to film another feature film next month. In this one, I am very much a serious person with a point to prove. It’s very different than the role I just played.

Ongoing, I have different roles on a kid’s YouTube channel called “Totally Studios.” I usually play the bad guy that the kids love to hate. I can’t believe how many children get their entertainment from YouTube! I love that we have become an amazing filming family over at the studios in Burbank.

I’m also booked in a recurring guest star role on a major streaming TV channel. This role will be fun for me. I believe it’s a small part of my personality already. I can’t wait to see what I am wearing!

BT: What are some career goals for you? Who would you love to work opposite of?

KP: This may sound funny, but I would love to be on the Hallmark channel with Candace Cameron-Bure so my Mom and her girlfriends can watch me. They watch that channel all day long. They know all the characters in every movie.

I would also like to be in a western with Sam Sheppard or Robert Redford next. That way, my Dad could see me. I could also use some of my weapon skills (safely) on that set.

Then I will be complete. Maybe even on to a 3rd career. Right?!

BT: LOL, I love that! We all wish you the utmost success and cannot wait to see you more! We will all be following you!

For more on Kelley Poling, check out her website, kelleypoling.com.

Model: actress Kelley Poling
kelleypoling.com
www.imdb.com/name/nm10298333/
www.instagram.com/kelleypoling
www.twitter.com/krp20
www.facebook.com/kelley.poling

Photographer: Isabelle Ruen
www.isabelleruen.com/
www.instagram.com/isabelleruen/?hl=en

PR: Wadjet PR Bridgetta Tomarchio
www.wadjetpr.com
www.facebook.com/WadjetPr/
www.instagram.com/wadjetpr
www.instagram.com/realbridgetta

Make-up artist/ Hair Stylist: Wendy Ryan Shelton
www.showoffmakeup.com
www.instagram.com/showoff_makeup

Photo assistant: Roy Tabucanon
www.instagram.com/jeepingtj26

Special thanks to Robert Sandusky
www.facebook.com/robert.sandusky.16