Finola Hughes On Working With John Travolta In Staying Alive: "My Acting Sucked"

James

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Post on Aug 17, 2025

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Finola Hughes Reflects on "Staying Alive": "My Acting Sucked," but the Experience Was Priceless

Finola Hughes, a name synonymous with General Hospital and countless other acting triumphs, recently offered a candid and surprisingly self-deprecating look back at her early career, specifically her role in the 1983 hit film Staying Alive. Speaking in a recent interview, Hughes revealed a surprisingly honest assessment of her performance alongside John Travolta: "My acting sucked." But her reflection wasn't all self-criticism; it was a nuanced look at youthful ambition, learning from mistakes, and the invaluable experience of working alongside a Hollywood legend.

A Young Actress's Dream Come True (and Lessons Learned)

Hughes's role in Staying Alive, the sequel to Saturday Night Fever, marked a significant step in her career. While the film itself may not be critically lauded today in the same way as its predecessor, it solidified Travolta's star power and launched the careers of several supporting actors. For Hughes, it was a dream come true—working alongside a global icon like Travolta in a high-profile production.

However, looking back with the wisdom of years, Hughes doesn't shy away from critiquing her own performance. "I was so young, so green," she admitted. "I was learning on the job, and honestly, my acting was…well, let's just say I had a lot to learn." This refreshingly honest assessment resonates with aspiring actors everywhere, reminding us that even the most successful stars have moments of self-doubt and periods of professional growth. This self-awareness is a crucial element in continued success in any creative field.

More Than Just Acting: The Value of On-Set Experience

Despite her self-critique, Hughes emphasized the immense value of the Staying Alive experience. Working with Travolta, a seasoned professional with years of experience under his belt, provided invaluable lessons that extended far beyond acting technique.

"John was incredibly professional," she recalled. "He was a star, but he treated everyone on set with respect. I learned a lot about professionalism, about teamwork, about the importance of hard work, even if my performance wasn't exactly award-worthy at the time." This highlights a crucial point often missed by aspiring actors: the importance of learning the craft and the business of acting. Networking, professionalism, and observing experienced colleagues are as crucial as mastering lines and character development.

Finola Hughes: A Legacy Beyond Staying Alive

Since her role in Staying Alive, Finola Hughes has built a remarkable career, becoming a household name through her long-running role as Anna Devane on General Hospital. This enduring success serves as a testament to her resilience, talent, and her ability to learn and grow from both triumphs and perceived failures. Her candid reflection on her Staying Alive experience serves as an inspiring reminder that even setbacks can be valuable stepping stones towards greater success. This humility and self-awareness are qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to her lasting presence in the entertainment industry.

What are your favorite Finola Hughes roles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!