Kate Hudson has opened up about the invaluable advice from her parents, Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, that has guided her through the complexities of Hollywood fame. During an interview with Variety, Hudson emphasized the lessons she learned from her father, who instilled in her the importance of loving her work for its intrinsic value rather than relying on it for stability in a volatile industry. She highlighted that Russell’s wisdom helped her maintain perspective during her career’s highs and lows.
Hudson also credited her mother, Goldie Hawn, for encouraging her to carve her own path and resist being defined by external expectations. “Thank God I had a mom who said, ‘Make your own way,’” she said. “When you become successful in the arts — and what I mean by ‘successful’ is when you’re making other people a lot of money — people really like to put you in a box. But nobody becomes an artist to be put in a cage.” This advice, Hudson noted, has allowed her to remain grounded despite the pressures of fame.
Reflecting on her journey, Hudson revealed that she almost “divorced” her parents before landing her breakthrough role in “Party of Five,” a choice she later realized was necessary for her growth. She also turned down an opportunity to star in one of Russell’s films to avoid being defined by his legacy. Despite these challenges, Hudson expressed gratitude for the strong relationship she maintains with her parents, who now live just seven blocks away from her.
Hudson’s perspective on fame and creativity has evolved as she transitioned from a “hot new ingénue” to an established actress in her 40s. She admitted that the industry’s focus on youth often overshadows the value of experienced performers. “I felt lucky that I knew the peaks and valleys of this roller-coaster ride,” she said. “One minute you’re the hot ingénue, and you’re up here, and then the next minute you’re wondering why you’re not in the conversation for certain things that you know you can do. It’s never been something that has defined my value.” Her words suggest a deep understanding of the realities of the Hollywood system.
Outside of her career, Hudson shared insights on balancing fame with family life. As a mother of three, she emphasized the importance of self-care to ensure she can be present for her children. “For you to be the best mom and the best partner, you have to be the best you,” she told co-star Brenda Song during filming of “Running Point.” Song echoed this sentiment, stating that Hudson’s ability to prioritize her well-being has made her an effective role model for other working moms.
Currently, Hudson is preparing for her role in “Song Sung Blue,” a film generating early Oscar buzz. While she acknowledged the excitement of potentially winning an Academy Award, she remained focused on the creative process rather than the outcome. Her journey, shaped by the wisdom of her parents and her own resilience, continues to inspire both her colleagues and fans.