Finola Hughes Reflects on ‘Staying Alive’ and John Travolta: A Candid Look at Her Acting Experience During Filming

Finola Hughes Reflects on ‘Staying Alive’ Debut and John Travolta‘s Pivotal Support

Legendary actress finola Hughes,celebrating 40 years as Anna Devane on General Hospital,opens up about her breakout role in the 1983 film staying Alive,detailing the invaluable guidance she received from co-star John Travolta and director Sylvester Stallone during her first foray into Hollywood.

Finola Hughes, a beloved figure in daytime television for her iconic portrayal of Anna Devane on General Hospital, recently marked an extraordinary career milestone: four decades in the role. However, before gracing the small screen, Hughes made her indelible mark on the film industry wiht her feature film debut in the 1983 sequel to the cultural phenomenon saturday Night Fever, titled Staying Alive.

the highly anticipated film saw John Travolta reprising his signature role as Tony Manero. Stepping behind the camera to direct was Sylvester stallone, fresh off his string of successful Rocky films. Hughes recalled the audition process vividly, describing an early morning session where she learned the routines and then read and danced opposite Travolta. “sly [Stallone] was there, and then they sort of said, ‘Yeah, you’ve got the role,’ Hughes shared. “They told me right there.”

A nervous Newcomer Finds Her Footing

Upon learning she had secured the role of Laura, Hughes’s reaction was one of quiet gratitude. “I just went, ‘Oh, thank you,'” she recounted. “They were like, ‘Is that all?’ They expected me to sort of jump up and down, which, of course, I would have, but I didn’t really know anyone. I think I said something like, ‘Oh well, I’m English.’ But I remember being so happy. Even though I hadn’t read the whole script, it just felt so right.”

navigating her first major film and her initial experience in Los Angeles, Hughes found a crucial ally in Travolta. “He was the sweetest,” she raved. “He’s just lovely. He was so supportive and so kind and kind of took me under his wing a little bit because I’d never been to Hollywood and he really looked after me.” Travolta’s kindness extended to ensuring Hughes felt cared for, a sentiment she deeply appreciated. “He made sure that I was taken care of, and he just is great.”

Hughes reflected on this period as being somewhat surreal. “Looking back on it,I feel like I was kind of in a little bit of a bubble,” she admitted. “I was alone in Hollywood, I was away from everybody I knew, but I think what made that easier for me was John, because he just was such a lifeline.” These supportive gestures extended to social outings; even during filming in New York, Travolta made an effort to include her, taking her to iconic spots like studio 54.

Stallone’s Spontaneity and the Pressure of a Sequel

Beyond Travolta’s mentorship, Hughes also found Stallone’s directorial approach beneficial. “He was fantastic, very spontaneous,” she reported. “He likes things to be spontaneous, and I think that was good for me because I didn’t know how to do that. I didn’t really know how to do anything. I’m being completely honest – I had no idea what I was doing, and John would sort of give me little clues.” The filmmakers were mindful of working with a novice, often incorporating surprises to help her relax and perform naturally.

(c) Paramount/courtesy Everett Collection

Despite the immense pressure of following up a cinematic phenomenon, Hughes felt insulated from it by her “in-the-moment” approach. “I was kind of blind to all that,” she explained. “I’m a bit of an in-the-moment person, so it didn’t really register. But when I look back, I realize that there was a lot of pressure.” Intense readiness, including six weeks of rehearsal before shooting and Travolta’s three-month regimen to prepare for the demanding dance sequences, contributed to a smooth production.

Premiere Nights and Enduring connections

Fashion choices for the premieres presented their own unique challenges. For the Los Angeles debut at Grauman’s Chinese Theater, Stallone’s then-wife, Sasha Czack, generously lent Hughes a dress from her own wardrobe. “I didn’t have anything to wear, so Sylvester Stallone’s wife at the time, Sasha [Czack] took me into her wardrobe and I wore one of her dresses,” Hughes revealed. “I had bought something, but they were like, ‘Yeah, no.’ And Sasha said, ‘Let’s just try on a bunch of things.’ So, I wore a long slip dress with beads over the top. It was really pretty.”

In New York, Hughes relied on her own limited wardrobe, opting for a vintage white, lacy top she had purchased. She noted the stark contrast with co-star Cindy Rhodes, who had multiple custom-made dresses and the support of a publicist and agent. “I wasn’t really prepared for any of that.”

The London premiere held particular sentimental value, as Hughes was able to share the experience with her father and brother. She reiterated Travolta’s continued kindness, highlighting his inclusive nature that evening. “He’s just a stand-up guy, that one. I can’t say enough good about him.”

© Paramount/courtesy everett Collection

Reflections on Career and Legacies

While Staying Alive initially garnered mixed reviews, it has as cultivated a dedicated cult following.Hughes candidly assesses her performance: “I think my acting sucked.” She acknowledges her Razzie Award nominations for Worst Supporting actress and Worst New Star, adding with a smile, “which I now know is kind of in good standing.” Despite the critical reception, Hughes cherishes the experience. “It was amazing,” she enthused. “It was really a fantastic experience and was really cool.”

The bonds formed during the filming continue to resonate. Hughes has encountered travolta a few times since and recalls a memorable meeting with Stallone in Beverly Hills years ago.”He was so great. I said I was doing this and that, and he said, ‘Yes, you always had a very good work ethic.’ He’s really supportive and cool. It was nice.”

The collaborative spirit and personal mentorship encountered during her early Hollywood days undoubtedly shaped Hughes’s enduring career, providing a foundation of support that she still values decades later.

Evergreen Insights: Navigating Early Career Challenges

Finola Hughes’s experience underscores several key aspects of launching a career in the demanding entertainment industry.The importance of mentorship, exemplified by John Travolta’s supportive role, can substantially ease the transition for newcomers. Similarly, adaptability and a willingness to learn, as demonstrated by Hughes’s openness to Stallone’s spontaneous direction, are crucial for growth.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Professionals:

• Seek Mentorship: identify experienced individuals who can offer guidance and support.
• Embrace Learning: Be open to new methods and constructive feedback, even when facing uncertainty.
• Develop Resilience: Understand that early career roles may come with challenges, but they offer invaluable experience.
• Networking Matters: Building positive relationships can lead to unexpected opportunities and support systems.

The landscape of Hollywood and the broader professional world continues to evolve, but the fundamental principles of hard work, professional relationships, and continuous learning remain constant, echoing the lessons from Hughes’s early career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Finola Hughes and ‘Staying Alive’

What was Finola Hughes’s debut film role?

Finola Hughes made her film debut in the 1983 sequel Staying Alive.

Who directed the movie ‘Staying Alive’?

sylvester Stallone directed the 1983 film Staying Alive.

Who starred alongside Finola Hughes in ‘Staying Alive’?

John Travolta starred alongside Finola Hughes in the 1983 film Staying Alive.

How did John Travolta help Finola Hughes during filming?

john Travolta provided significant support and guidance to Finola Hughes, helping her navigate her first Hollywood experience and making her feel cared for.

What is Finola Hughes best known for?

Finola Hughes is best known for her long-standing role as anna Devane on the television soap opera General Hospital.

Did ‘Staying Alive’ receive positive reviews?

The film Staying alive received mostly negative reviews upon its release, though it has since developed a cult following.

What are your memories of Finola Hughes’s early career? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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How did Finola Hughes’ role contribute to the drama in ‘Staying Alive’?

Finola Hughes on ‘Staying Alive’ and John Travolta: An Honest Look at the Filming Experience

The Legacy of ‘Staying Alive’

‘Staying alive,’ the 1983 sequel to the iconic film ‘Saturday Night Fever,’ holds a unique place in cinematic history. While opinions on the film’s overall merit may vary, its impact on popular culture, particularly within dance, choreography, and the cinematic portrayal of the performing arts, is undeniable.Finola Hughes,as the prominent female lead,provided a fresh perspective on the experience during filming.

Finola Hughes: Finding Her Place

Finola Hughes, a respected actress known for her work in various television series and films, starred opposite John Travolta. Her role provided a critical ingredient in the “Staying Alive” drama. Here are insights into her experiences:

Early Career and ‘Staying Alive’

Hughes, before ‘Staying Alive’, had established herself in the entertainment industry, but ‘Staying Alive’ acted a major role into her career.

John Travolta: A Superstar Up Close

Working with John Travolta was certainly an experience in itself. Her insights offer a candid look behind the scenes of the filming, what she observed, and how she felt.

Working with an icon

1. The film had its own set of challenges and rewards. “Working with Travolta was intense. He was in character even when the cameras weren’t rolling,” hughes shared in a past interview.

2. The pressure of living up to the hype of ‘Saturday Night Fever’ was palpable throughout the production and the intense dance rehearsal.

3. Hughes and Travolta’s characters were at the heart of the story and it became key to the movie.

The Rigors of Filming: Dance, Drama, and Challenges

‘staying Alive’ was a physically demanding film, with extensive dance sequences that required the actors to be in top physical condition. The emotional intensity further added to the film’s complexity.

Choreography and Dance Sequences

The film’s dance sequences were intricate, requiring countless hours of practice.

Hughes reflects on the discipline and dedication of the choreographers and dancers.

The technical aspects, and how the crew created some of the most iconic scenes in film history.

Balancing Act: Drama and Romance

The film had dramatic romance as well as demanding dance sequences.

The challenges and rewards were also apparent throughout the filming production.

Beyond the Film: Lasting Relationships and Reflections

the experience fostered many lasting relationships.

Hughes’ Reflections

As an actress reflecting on the 1983 filming from today,Hughes shows the audience how the experience shaped her career.

She credits the film with providing a significant break.

Hughes provided insight into the many lessons learned from ‘Staying Alive’ and how she saw herself being part of this cinematic milestone.

Her perspective shows the real behind-the-scenes, challenges, and lasting contribution to the classic 1980s film