Kelly Stables is an American actress known for her exceptional talent in television, film, and voice acting. With a career spanning over two decades, she has made a lasting impression in Hollywood through her versatile roles in hit TV shows like Two and a Half Men, The Exes, and Superstore.
Biography
Kelly was born on January 26, 1978, in St. Louis, Missouri. She grew up in St. Louis with her elder sister, Tanya Childress. Her mother, Jill Cissel, supported her early interest in acting, which began when she played an angel in a local Christmas play at just five years old. During her high school years at Lafayette High School, Kelly was quite popular, serving as a cheerleader, being crowned prom queen, and being elected as senior class president.
After high school, Kelly pursued higher education at the University of Missouri in Columbia, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Communication with an emphasis in Television and a minor in Theatre Performance. During her university years, she was an active member of the Delta Gamma sorority before graduating in 1999.
Career Journey
Early Career and Breakthrough
In March 2000, Kelly moved to Los Angeles to pursue her acting dreams. Her career began with work as an extra, including playing a monkey in Tim Burton’s “Planet of the Apes” (2001). She also performed stunt work for notable films like “Spider-Man” (2002), “The Ring” (2002), and “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement” (2004).
Her theatrical background includes starring roles in the Thousand Oaks Civic Light Opera’s production of “Peter Pan” as Wendy and as the title character in “Sleeping Beauty.” She also notably portrayed Marion Davies in the stage production “W.R. and the Daisy.”
Rise to Fame with “The Ring” Films
Kelly’s breakthrough came when she replaced actress Daveigh Chase as Samara Morgan in the short film “Rings” (2005) and the feature film “The Ring Two” (2005). The horror sequel grossed $164 million worldwide, significantly elevating her profile in the industry. The role was physically demanding, requiring five and a half hours of makeup application and over an hour to remove. Her portrayal caught the attention of major publications like Rolling Stone and Variety.
This success allowed Kelly to quit her day job in accounting at a theater company and focus fully on her acting career.
Television Success
Kelly’s television career flourished with several memorable roles:
- She voiced Will Vandom in the animated series “W.I.T.C.H.” (2004-2006)
- She had a recurring role as Janette on ABC Family’s “Greek” (2007-2009)
- She gained popularity as Alan Harper’s receptionist Melissa on “Two and a Half Men” (2008-2010)
- She co-starred in the ABC sitcom “Romantically Challenged” (2010) as Lisa Thomas
- She played legal assistant Eden Konkler on TV Land’s “The Exes” (2011-2015)
- She portrayed Kelly Watson on NBC’s “Superstore” (2017-2021)
- She had a recurring role as Mary Anne in The CW’s “No Tomorrow” (2016)
Voice Acting and Film Work
Beyond live-action roles, Kelly has established herself as a talented voice actress. She voiced Arrowette in the DC Universe animated series “Young Justice” (2019, 2021) and Mouse in the fantasy adventure film “Dolittle” (2020).
Her film credits include appearances in “Horrible Bosses 2” (2014) as Rachel and a lead role as workaholic CEO Connie in the Christmas comedy “Holiday Twist” (2023). She has also lent her voice to animated films like “Hoodwinked!” and “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.”
In 2024, Kelly Stables took on the role of director for the film Unexpecting, showcasing her talent behind the camera. Written by Brian Kiley, the film stars Brenda Ballard, Gary Ballard, and Brandi Burrows.
2024 saw Kelly Stables step behind the camera to direct “Unexpecting.” This film, written by Brian Kiley and starring Brenda Ballard, Gary Ballard, and Brandi Burrows, marks her directorial debut.
Personal Life and Relationships
Kelly Stables married her manager Kurt Patino in March 2005 after dating for two years. Kurt is an American writer, producer, and manager of Patino Management Company who has managed several actors including Molly Hagan and Jennifer Taylor.
The couple has welcomed two sons into their family:
- Kendrick Kurt Patino, born on September 7, 2012
- Kellen William Patino, born on April 2, 2015
Interestingly, during her time on “The Exes,” the writers incorporated Kelly’s real-life pregnancy into the storyline of her character Eden.
Physical Appearance
Kelly Stables may be small in stature at 4 feet 11 inches (weighing approximately 54 kg), but her personality and talent are anything but diminutive. She has measurements of 33-24-33 inches and wears a size 7 (US) shoe. Kelly is known for her expressive grey eyes and brown hair.
Net Worth
Through her diverse acting career spanning television, film, voice work, and commercials (including campaigns for Burger King and 7 Up), Kelly Stables has accumulated an estimated net worth of $3 million. Her success across multiple platforms in the entertainment industry has contributed to her financial stability and wealth.
