Kate Hudson Reflects on Almost Famous 25 Years Later as She Poses with Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, and Oliver Hudson at a Heartfelt Family Celebration
It’s been 25 years since Kate Hudson first stepped into the role that changed her life — and now, she’s celebrating that milestone surrounded by the people who have shaped her the most. The Oscar-nominated actress, who captured hearts as Penny Lane in the 2000 cult classic Almost Famous, reflected on the film’s legacy while posing alongside her legendary mother Goldie Hawn, stepfather Kurt Russell, and brother Oliver Hudson at the 2025 Will Rogers Pioneer of the Year Dinner.
For Hudson, the evening was more than just a career tribute — it was a full-circle moment. Standing next to her family, she smiled for cameras and fans alike, radiating the same light that once defined her unforgettable portrayal of Penny Lane. “I could be anywhere in the world, and someone will just yell it at me,” Hudson told People in an exclusive interview before the event. “Or they’ll say, ‘Miss Penny Lane, Miss Penny Lane.’ I can’t believe how many generations now.”
The actress reflected on the film that turned her into an international star, expressing gratitude for its lasting impact on both her career and audiences. Almost Famous, written and directed by Cameron Crowe, followed a teenage journalist who embarks on a rock-and-roll journey with an up-and-coming band. Hudson’s Penny Lane — both ethereal and grounded — became one of the most beloved characters of her generation. The role earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination, launching her into Hollywood stardom almost overnight.
Looking back, Hudson says it’s surreal to realize how much time has passed. “When I made that movie, I was so young and so in love with the process,” she recalled. “It didn’t feel like I was making a movie that would define anything — it just felt like I was doing what I loved.” Now, two and a half decades later, Almost Famous has become a timeless piece of film history, often rewatched and rediscovered by younger audiences who connect with its message about love, passion, and identity.
At the dinner, Hudson was joined by her family — a powerhouse of Hollywood talent spanning generations. Goldie Hawn, radiant as ever, stood proudly by her daughter’s side, while Kurt Russell, her longtime partner, and Oliver Hudson, Kate’s older brother, added their support with warm smiles. The family’s tight-knit bond has long been admired in Hollywood, and this moment captured that love perfectly.
Hudson also shared her thoughts on how the film continues to resonate today. “What’s beautiful is that Almost Famous feels just as alive now as it did then,” she said. “It’s about finding yourself through chaos and love — and that’s something that never goes away.”
The event celebrated not just Hudson’s career but also her family’s remarkable influence in Hollywood. Goldie Hawn, a pioneer of comedic and dramatic roles, and Kurt Russell, a cinematic icon in his own right, have built legacies that shaped the path for their children. Hudson’s reflection on her Almost Famous journey felt deeply intertwined with that lineage — one defined by artistry, authenticity, and heart.
As she accepted the honor and looked back on her journey, Hudson’s gratitude was palpable. “It’s all happening,” she said with a smile, echoing her character’s most famous line. The phrase, once spoken by Penny Lane in a moment of youthful euphoria, now carries a deeper, more grounded meaning — a testament to growth, time, and enduring creativity.
For fans who grew up quoting Almost Famous, the sight of Hudson with her family brought both nostalgia and inspiration. It reminded the world why her performance remains so beloved — not just for her charm and warmth, but for the honesty she brought to every frame.
Two and a half decades later, Kate Hudson still embodies the spirit of Penny Lane — luminous, free-spirited, and forever unforgettable. And with her family by her side, that legacy feels even more timeless.
