Back in the '90s, I loved tuning into California Dreams every Saturday. At the time, I was blossoming into young adulthood in my early 20s, and the show became a feel-good favorite. Much like Saved by the Bell, which I had enjoyed during my teen years, California Dreams had that lighthearted charm—but what really set it apart was its diverse, multiracial cast and its focus on the friendships within a fictional band.

Of course, my favorite character was Tiffani Smith, played by the ever-charming Kelly Packard. She embodied that quintessential all-American California look—sun-kissed, cool, and effortlessly kind. It’s no surprise that Baywatch later brought her on board.

For anyone who grew up in the '90s, Kelly Packard is a familiar face—whether you remember her as the sun-kissed surfer Tiffani on California Dreams or as April on the global phenomenon Baywatch. With a career that spans iconic TV shows, hosting gigs, and short films, Kelly has become a beloved figure across generations of fans.

I caught up with Kelly at The Hollywood Show, where she shared her thoughts on being part of one of the most-watched series in the world, the joy of interacting with longtime fans, and the lessons she's learned since her early start in the industry. Warm, funny, and refreshingly down-to-earth, Kelly proves that her star power goes far beyond the screen.

Here’s what she had to say.

Ruchel: You are well-known for your role on Baywatch. How did joining such an iconic show shape your career? And what was it like working on a series that became a global phenom?

Kelly: For me, Baywatch was a dream come true—I was born and raised in California, and if I wasn’t working, you’d find me at the beach. So, to actually get paid to be at the beach? It was incredible. On breaks, I’d take out a jet ski or a paddleboard. I mean, what other job lets you do that? It really was a dream.

Fun fact—a lot of people don’t know this—I actually played four different characters on the show. My first appearance was in season two, then I came back in seasons five and six, and later became a series regular in seasons eight and nine.

Ruchel: As someone who started in Hollywood at a young age, what are some of the most important lessons you've learned over the years, both personally and professionally?

Kelly: Personally, I learned how to have a thick skin at a very early age. I started when I was eight, but I didn’t actually book anything until I was about 13. So, I got a real early taste of what the business is like.

Professionally, oh I learned a lot professionally. Oh my goodness, from everything ..., from what a camera looks like and how it works to what a director's job is. Like, I feel like I've learned more than your average Joe because I've been on different types of film sets and different types of shows.

Ruchel: How does it feel to be part of the Hollywood Show convention and interact with fans who grew up watching you on California Dreams and other shows.

Kelly: I'm so excited to be here—it’s my first Hollywood Show! Honestly, between you and me, I’m a total starstruck idiot. I'm just as excited to see all the amazing people here as anyone else.