Finola Hughes On "Staying Alive": "My Acting Sucked" – A Candid Look Back

James

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Post on Aug 17, 2025

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Finola Hughes on "Staying Alive": "My Acting Sucked" – A Candid Look Back

Finola Hughes, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles on General Hospital and Dynasty, recently offered a surprisingly candid and self-deprecating look back at her early acting career, specifically her performance in the 1983 Sylvester Stallone classic, Staying Alive. In a recent interview, Hughes admitted, "My acting sucked," leaving fans both amused and intrigued. This honest reflection sheds light not only on her journey as an actress but also on the pressures and realities of navigating the early stages of a Hollywood career.

<h3>A Young Actress in the Spotlight</h3>

Hughes, then a relatively unknown actress, landed a role in Staying Alive, the sequel to the hugely successful Saturday Night Fever. The film, a high-energy dance musical, featured a young ensemble cast and catapulted several performers to stardom. While the film itself achieved considerable box office success, Hughes' own performance hasn't always been met with the same level of praise. Her comments about her acting in the film aren't entirely self-critical; they reflect a seasoned professional's honest assessment of her early work, acknowledging the learning curve inherent in the profession.

<h3>The Challenges of Early Roles</h3>

Many aspiring actors can relate to Hughes' self-assessment. Early roles often serve as valuable learning experiences, providing opportunities to develop skills and hone craft. The pressure of working alongside established stars like Sylvester Stallone can be immense, particularly for a young performer still finding their footing. Hughes' candid admission underscores the fact that even successful actors experience periods of self-doubt and moments where they feel they haven't met their own high standards. It's a relatable sentiment for anyone pursuing a challenging career path.

<h3>Growth and Maturation as an Actress</h3>

Since her role in Staying Alive, Hughes has built a remarkable career, becoming a household name thanks to her long-running roles on General Hospital (as Anna Devane) and Dynasty (as Fallon Carrington Colby). These roles have allowed her to showcase a wider range of acting abilities and demonstrate significant growth since her early days in Hollywood. Her recent comments, far from being a sign of self-deprecation, highlight a level of self-awareness and humility that is often missing in the often-ego-driven world of entertainment.

<h3>Lessons Learned and Lasting Impact</h3>

Hughes' honest reflection offers valuable lessons for aspiring actors. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance, self-reflection, and continuous learning. It's a reminder that even established stars have faced challenges and moments of self-doubt throughout their careers. Her willingness to openly discuss her early struggles makes her a relatable and inspiring figure, proving that success often comes from embracing imperfections and learning from past experiences.

Key takeaways from Finola Hughes' comments:

• Honesty is refreshing: In a world of carefully crafted public images, Hughes' honesty is both refreshing and relatable.
• Self-awareness is key: Recognizing areas for improvement is crucial for professional growth.
• Early roles are learning experiences: Even less-than-stellar performances contribute to overall growth and development.

While Hughes might have jokingly described her acting in Staying Alive as "sucked," her candidness ultimately reveals a strong and resilient spirit, one that has allowed her to overcome early challenges and build a long and successful career. Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone who's ever felt they fell short of expectations – reminding us that the journey, with all its ups and downs, is what truly shapes us.