Paul Anthony Kelly is opening up about the difficult road to his acting breakthrough. The Love Story star, who plays a pivotal role in the Ryan Murphy-produced series, says people did not take him seriously because of his modeling background.
“People see a model, and they immediately assume you can’t act, or that you’re just a pretty face trying to get famous,” Kelly told The Hollywood Reporter. “I had to work twice as hard just to get in the room.” The actor, who spent years as a high-fashion model before pivoting to acting, faced constant skepticism from casting directors and industry insiders who dismissed him based on his past career.
Everything changed when he met Ryan Murphy. The prolific producer and director cast him in Love Story after what Kelly describes as a transformative audition. “Ryan saw something in me that no one else really did,” Kelly shared. Murphy reportedly told him during the audition that he had “the eyes of a leading man” and believed in his ability to carry dramatic weight on screen. Kelly credits Murphy with taking a chance on him when few others would.
His performance in Love Story has since earned critical acclaim, with many praising his emotional depth and natural screen presence. Kelly has since become a fan favorite on the show. “I just want to prove that I earned this seat at the table,” Kelly said. “Ryan gave me the opportunity, and I’m going to make sure I don’t waste it.”
