Livin' la Vida L.A.!

What Happened at the 2013 Imagen Awards?

2013-09-20T11:52:00.002-07:00

**SPOILER ALERT**

'Hola LA!' Did not win the Imagen Award

First let me tell you, 'Hola LA!' was proudly nominated for Best Local Informational Program and we got all gussied up, walked the red carpet, sat at the CBS table and, and, and...waited for our name to be called so we could all go up on stage and claim our award............But, alas, the beautiful Imagen Award slipped through our well manicured and bejeweled hands.

You know the saying, "It's an honor just to be nominated"? I can vouch for that! We were, after all, glad to be recognized for our hard work and efforts; that alone is pretty impressive. So instead of this blog being about how amazing it was to win and all that happened (which is how I originally envisioned it - hehe) it's now an insightful photo blog chronicling the before, during and after.

*Photo Blog*

Photo by: Kevin Carmona

With tips from my hair stylist, I attempted to style my own hair...No, this isn't the finished result. But I did get a little nervous right at this point.

Meet my paparazzi friend, Kevin Carmona, who came over to take behind the scenes photos of me prior to leaving for the award show

Photo by: Kevin Carmona

Edgar Anthony Arreola putting on the finishing make up touches. And look, my hair did come together :)

Edgar Anthony Arreola and Kikey Castillo

And here is Edgar Anthony Arreola showing off his excellent make up work. I loved it!! And I'm dressed and ready to go, but not before taking a few pictures

Actress & TV Host: Kikey Castillo, Styled by: Steve Galindo, Dress from: InPRess LA, Make up: Edgar Anthony Arreola, Photo by: Kevin Carmona

I like this picture a lot because I'm at home looking all glamorous and I'm posing right next to two of my favorite pictures - my college graduation photo and my gold medals from Wushu martial arts...says Fierce and Smart!

Styled by: Steve Galindo, Dress from: InPRess LA, Make up: Edgar Anthony Arreola, Photo by: Kevin Carmona

Now it wouldn't be me without getting a little silly and poking fun at myself :p -- OK, I'm off to the red carpet to meet up with the 'Hola LA!' gals!!

Hola LA! Hosts: Kikey Castillo, Dyana Ortelli, Naibe Reynoso, Bel Hernandez & Hola LA Producer: Lorena Alvarado

At the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills just finished walking the red carpet. Don't we all look super FABULOUS!!! Wow, I was so excited and proud of us at this moment. Now to the red carpet interviews where we will plug our show, 'Hola LA!'

And don't say, "this is our good side" hahaha. Plugging away and having a good time doing it!

LtoR: Dyana Ortelli, Kikey Castillo, Robert (CBS Hola LA! editor), Mansan (CBS Hola LA! Sr. Producer)

After the red carpet, it's time to sit at the CBS table so we can eat and get the show started. Hope dinner is good. I've been on a strict diet so I could look good in that body hugging dress!

It's tradition that right after the salad and before the main course you get up and mingle going from table to table...I guess you would call that "schmoozing" :) Ran into actress friend Jacqueline Calderon-Guido (we did the play "8 Ways..." together) her son, Fabrizio who was in World War Z and actress Patricia Rae, who was a guest of ours on 'Hola LA!' Among many others...

Joe Minos from Chicago Fire and Kikey Castillo

First of all let me say, I love me some 'Chicago Fire'. Ok now during the show I needed to get up and stretch my legs and I ran smack dab into Joe Minoso, who plays Joe Cruz on 'Chicago Fire'...my fav show!! He too was nominated for an Imagen Award and he too did not win, we talked about that LOL. Lovely man, who was very nice.

So here we are, after the show hanging outside enjoying the beautiful evening air - still having fun, smiling, and laughing even though we did not bring home the trophy. We even had some fans and friends of 'Hola LA!' come hang with us a bit...we always enjoy that :)

This is just a great shot of actor Enrique Castillo looking all dapper and handsome with two beauties on each arm lol. He's the man in our 'Hola LA!' lives as Senior Producer of the show and we adore him!!

Lorena and I at Johnnie's Pastrami in Culver City

And that brings me to the end of the night...What?? I had to eat!!!! You've never seen two girls in sequin dresses pigging out on pastrami sandwiches late at night :p No more strict diet for me...mmmmmm, so good!!

Don't forget 28^th Annual Imagen Awards will premiere locally on PBS SoCaL this Saturday, September 21^stat 10pm and will re-air on Sunday, September 22^nd at 4pm. The show will also air outside of the Greater Los Angeles area on different PBS stations across the nation, including New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Boston, Phoenix, Miami, Houston, and more.

**Special Thanks to my friend and go to Stylist, Steve Galindo for Styling me and to InPRess LA Celebrity PR for the loan of the dress**

Steve Galindo and I celebrating with mimosas after finding my Imagen dress!

Kikey Castillo Interviews Blanca Valdez, Casting Director of "East Los High"

2013-07-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

KC: Hi Blanca, thank you so much for being on my blog Livin’ la Vida LA! Did you know that you and Carlos are my ginny pigs :)? You two are my first interviews on my blog!

BV: Wow what an honor! Thank you so much how can I refuse a talented actor as yourself especially with a blogger name like Livin’ la Vida LA!

KC: Awe thanks, you're always so kind. Ok, Blanca so I want to get all the juicy casting details about "East Los High." But First, let’s start with how you got involved casting this project?

BV: I got involved in casting this amazing project because first of all Carlos Portugal our director and one of the writers of "East Los High" and I have worked together on many great projects in the past. It started many years ago when I cast his Telemundo sitcom “Viva Vegas.” We hit it off immediately and we have been friends ever since. From the moment I read “East Los High” I loved it and wanted to be a part of it.

KC: It's a lot about relationships in this industry as you can attest to. So, this show has many characters on the series... what was your reaction when you realized you had to cast so many parts?

BV: I thought “fabulous” bring it on, I love the challenge! There isn’t anything more exciting than being able to offer actors work and especially great roles they can develop.

KC: So all in all, how many actors got cast on the show?

BV: I believe we cast over 75 actors.

KC: That's amazing! And almost all the teen leads were unknowns; did you feel it was a big risk casting them in leading roles?

BV: Absolutely not. I felt very strongly about the actors ability to act...and after many months of casting and many callbacks...Carlos was able to select the cast. The hard part was selecting one actor for each role because there were many amazing actors! I’m a strong believer of giving new talent an opportunity to develop a role so that they’re able to show their range.

KC: Blanca, you're a casting angel to us actors :) Now, allow us to be a fly on the wall and walk us through the audition process from first audition to booking the role.

BV: First of all there were many, many auditions, but the ones selected for callbacks had to read with some of the other actors to see if they had chemistry. From there we built the cast, then we booked.

KC: I’m sure you saw plenty of talented actors - who blew you away at the audition and why?

BV: Yes we did see a lot of talented actors and the ones that gave me chills and made me feel something were the ones that totally blew me away!! There are too many to name...but I also know that even if they didn't get booked on this project they are the future “Michael Penas" or "Michelle Rodriguez.”

KC: That brings me to my next question, is it true that sometimes the best actor for the part doesn’t always get the role?

BV: Yes, very true. A lot depends on chemistry with the rest of the actors and how everyone clicks into the puzzle of creating a cast.

KC: Did you personally have a favorite character when reading the script that you were excited to cast?

BV: I found the writing to be amazing and especially in their portrayal of Latino actors in Los Angeles ...although there is a lot of drama and intrigue with an educational message within...everyone was so true to their characters. Some you love, some you hate, some you feel so sorry for them. That’s when you know they’re amazing actors bringing the pages to life! So, I loved them all!

KC: As a veteran casting director of commercials, telenovelas and movies what made this project different than all your other projects to cast?

BV: It was different because it dealt with serious issues that are going amongst teen Latinos and it’s the first TV series written by Latinos with an all Latino cast.

KC: How was it working with Carlos Portugal, the co-creator, did he provide a lot of input on casting choices?

BV: Carlos is someone who’s with me every step of the way and he and I discussed talent throughout the casting process. He wanted the best talent for his cast and we accomplished exactly what he was looking for.

KC: You have a busy casting office (as I have often witnessed) always buzzing with actors, producers and agencies for major brands; what’s the feedback been like on the show?

BV: Amazing! Awesome! I love it! When’s the next one!

KC: Yay, for the show, great feedback! In my blog's opening I mention that this show IS mainstream entertainment, do you feel your show is mainstream?

BV: Absolutely! that’s the best part about the show...it’s a TV series for everyone to watch...it represents the American Latinos that are born and raised in this country.

KC: What’s next for Blanca Valdez?

BV: There are a few film projects in the works and a project that I’ll be producing and also I'm casting hosts for Mun2. (Submission info below)

KC: Thank you so much Blanca, always such a pleasure talking to you and auditioning for you!! Wonderful job casting "East Los High" I was Hooked (with a capital "H"). Anything else you’d like to leave us with?

BV: Thank you so much great talking to you too! Many thanks and also for supporting and

watching "East Los High"...the more support we get the more projects we can create!

Mun2 Host Casting Opportunity
Los Angeles, Miami and New York and prospective candidates will need to submit an application and highlight reel via NBCUNICareers.com by August 2 at noon PST

To apply go to:

www.nbcunicareers.com

Job #11027BR : On-Air Talent - Los Angeles, CA

Job #11028BR : On-Air Talent - New York, NY

Job #11029BR : On-Air Talent – Hialeah, FL

Kikey Castillo Interviews Carlos Portugal, Co-Creator of "East Los High"

2013-07-25T18:28:00.001-07:00

KC: Hi Carlos, thank you so much for being my guinea pig, you and Blanca, are my first interviews on Livin’ la Vida LA! And I’m very happy you two are my firsts!

CP: Me too. I haven’t been anyone’s first in a very long time.

KC: Ha! I already know this is gonna be a fun interview. Ok, now down to the nitty gritty. Tell me, how do you describe "East Los High" to your friends who have yet to see the show?

CP: That’s easy. "East Los High” is sort of telenovela meets an American teen show like “Gossip Girl” meets a gritty Mexican movie like “Amores Perros.”

KC: I love that description. So, what was your role(s) on the show?

CP: Co-creator, Head Writer, Producer and Director. I ran personal errands for the staff, swept the floors and went on numerous Starbucks runs for various crew members.

KC: What about the editing of the 24 episodes, did you have a lot of input there?

CP: I always work extremely closely with the editor during post. I was very fortunate to work with a great editor named Donna Mathewson. Editing is, by far, my favorite part of production. By the time you get to post, all the heavy lifting is done. It all becomes about creating a pretty pictures and eating lots of junk food.

KC: Wow, sounds like you had your hands in a little bit of everything. Is that what they call “Creative Control”?

CP: That’s right. For me it’s all about control. Just like Janet Jackson.

KC: "...Miss Jackson if you're nasty", I couldn't resist. So how did you come about the project yourself?

CP: I was hired by this wonderful non-profit organization, Population Media Center (PMC.) They produce entertainment/educational shows around the world. This project was their first USA production.

KC: What is a great on set story you can share with us?

CP: I worked with more than seventy Latino actors. During our 67 day shoot, not one single Latino was late on set. I think that’s like the equivalent to Moses parting the Red Seas.

KC: A miracle indeed! When the project was completed, did you plan for it to air on Hulu?

CP: No. After meeting with various networks, Hulu made us the best offer and we accept it.

KC: What’s the feedback been like on the show?

CP: 95% has been fantastic. Lots of “binge-watching.” Seems that most people want to know about Season 2.

KC: Heck yeah we do, but I'll get to that in a second. How has it been going for the show on HULU? I hear things are rosy!

CP: Yes. I heart Hulu. They are an amazing group of people. "East Los High" has been the #1 show on Hulu Latino since its premiere on June 3^rd. It's also on the top 5 Hulu shows.

KC: So getting back to season 2, will there be one? Or a spin-off perhaps?

CP: Yes. But I can’t say much about that. Which is very difficult, you know how much us Latinos love to chismear. But I can tell you that I’m considering doing a prequel called “East Los Kinder” -- you know, back when they were babies.

KC: Come on chismear away! Ok, I won't press to much...yet. So, do you feel you have in some way helped open the doors for other shows like "East Los High"?

CP: I would love to say “yes,” but I’m not sure. Only time will tell. Ask me again in 3 years.

KC: What would you say is your crowning achievement on "East Los High"?

CP: Being able to get up at 4:30am every morning in order to get to the set on time. I hate waking up when the alarm goes off and it’s still dark outside.

KC: The actors had to audition to get the roles they got, how did you “cast” your writers, producers and casting director?

CP: The writers were easy to “cast.” I meet with writers and ask them to write a couple of pages of script. I can tell right away who’s got the right sensibility for show. Producers were people I knew or that came highly recommended. Casting Director? I’ve known Blanca for over ten years. A lot of the show’s success goes to her. She found all the actors.

KC: How involved were you in the casting process with Blanca?

CP: Very. But Blanca always meets when them first. I trust Blanca explicitly. She’s got an incredible eye for talent.

KC: In my blog opening I mentioned that this show IS mainstream entertainment, do you feel your show is mainstream?

CP: Well… let’ see… “East Los High” has sex, romance, music, dancing, envy, jealousy, violence, bitchy girls, hot guys… Yeah, I think it qualifies as mainstream.

KC: What’s next for you?

CP: I’m going to the Sundance Cinemas (the old Sunset 5) to watch “Only God Forgives,” starring Ryan Gossling. Ryan and I getting married next month – he just doesn’t know it yet.

KC: Oh you got that all wrong, he's marrying me :) Thank You So Much Carlos for allowing me to interview you (you made me laugh) and of course thanks for your wonderful show! I think my blog readers now know that it took “A Village” to raise this baby. Anything else you’d like to leave us with?

CP: Yes. I love our baby. And every single person who was part of making it such a great show.

Carlos Portugal

Carlos Portugal is an executive producer, writer and director, who began his career at KQED, San Francisco’s PBS station. He has worked for ABC, NBC, Lifetime, Telemundo, Fox Latin American Channel and Fox Kids. Portugal made his directorial film debut with the feature “East Side Story,” he also worked for three seasons as a staff writer on Tyler Perry’s “Meet the Browns” and “House of Payne” for TBS Network.

Recently, Portugal co-wrote and directed his second feature film, “Pop Star,” a teen musical which premiered on Lifetime on June 2013.

"East Los High" a HUGE hit on HULU!

2013-07-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

Have you seen it yet??? OK, I'll admit, I was slow on the trigger to tune in. You see, I was eager to support the show because it's Latino written, directed, acted and produced. And typically, Latino shows and movies need a lot of love to succeed in mainstream today. Also, I was excited to see many of my friends who got cast on "East Los High."

But I just couldn't pull myself away from watching my mainstream shows on my Hulu queue. Then one Sunday, tired of my mainstream shows on my Hulu queue, I pulled the trigger and watched the first episode of "East Los High." Uhmmm, where did my Sunday go? I binged watched like 6 episodes!!! Can you say Hooked! I couldn't get enough of the show! And trust me, you will get hooked, don't be fooled by the title "East Los High."

You see, although I'm a Latina, I did not go to East Los High or even grown up in East LA, more like Hermiston High in a rural cowboy town of Oregon...so other than my Latin heritage, I too thought, "can I relate to a show about East LA teens?" DON'T be fooled my fellow blog readers, let me ask you, do you like the TV shows "Scandal", "Nashville", "Chicago Fire"? Well here's a doozy, this show is right in that league, with it's storylines, acting and juicy cliff hangers. So GOOD! What I realize now, is that this show IS MAINSTREAM entertainment...can you say egg on my face.

So after being sufficiently hooked consuming as many episodes as I could in my free time (24 episodes...phew!) I attended NHMC's MediaCon where the co-creator, Carlos Portugal, was speaking on a panel about "East Los High"...My lucky day!! After the panel, I immediately went up to Carlos, and embarrassingly so, gushed to him about my enthusiasm for the show and that I would like to blog about it to help him get viewers to tune in. Needless to say, he does not need my help garnering attention, this show is doing just fine, actually more than fine on Hulu garnering super high ratings and breaking records. But he was gracious enough to agree - thank you Carlos :) Click here for my interview with Carlos Portugal.

Kikey Castillo and Carlos Portugal at NHMC's MediaCon

Another key player in "East Los High," who not only is my friend but a phenomenal casting director is Blanca Valdez, who cast the entire series. As an actress, I wanted to know the low down and dirty on the casting process. Hold a sec, are you thinking what I thinking??? "Hey, why wasn't I on this show?" Don't worry, I did ask her...she's my friend after all :) Needless to say, I think Kikey Castillo will be on Blanca's shortlist from now on - love ya Blanca! Click here for my interview with Blanca Valdez.

Blanca Valdez and Kikey Castillo at "8 Ways to Say I Love My Life!" play at Casa 0101

Still want more? How about an interview with the writers of "East Los High" - written by Elia Esparza of Hola LA! and Latin Heat Entertainment: 'East Los High' Opens Doors for Latino Writers

Watch on Hulu at: www.hulu.com/east-los-high
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EastLosHigh

Hola LA! Stands for Hope in Support of Padres Contra el Cancer's 5K Run

2013-06-24T09:24:00.001-07:00

'Hola LA!' sharing Celeb MC duties at the event. Naibe, Kikey and Bel with Esperanza, Padres Contra el Cancer's mascot

PADRES Contra El Cáncer (Parents Against Cancer) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the quality of life for children with cancer and other blood disorders and their families

At 4:30am "Don't Stop Believin'" blared from my phone waking me from my sweet slumber. Yes, 4:30am - thank goodness I don't mind being an early bird. On this special day, Sunday, June 23rd, I was to join my 'Hola LA!' co-hosts, Bel Hernandez, Naibe Reynoso and other celeb's for shared MC duties at Padres Contra el Cancer's Stand for Hope 5K Run/Walk at the Pasadena Rose Bowl. I was so excited about the event that I didn't even press snooze!

Kikey talking about the Stand for Hope 5K run/walk with Naibe and Bel

Kikey with boxer, "Bam Bam" Brandon Rios who's next fight is in Nov against Manny Pacquiao

Did you know that More than 13,500 children are diagnosed with cancer in the United States every year. PADRES focuses on the needs of the entire family affected by childhood cancer and blood disorders, helping THOUSANDS of children from across the country, including California, South Florida, New York City and Las Vegas.

Esperanza, the mascot, with wonderful children who attended the 5K run/walk

Naibe and her daughter crossing the finish line

And the event was particularly close to my heart as cancer has also touched my life...my grandmother has a rare form of skin cancer and is currently getting treatment.

Kikey, taking a turn at MC'ing the event with fellow 'Hola LA!' co-hosts

Funds from the 2013 ‘Stand for HOPE!’ will support PADRES’ commitment to raise awareness for childhood cancer and also help expand its level of support services, which include transportation to hospitals for treatment; interpreters & case managers; grocery vouchers; and emotional support groups.

'Hola LA!' Exec. Producer and Actor Enrique Castillo crossing the finish line

In conjunction with the 5K run/walk, Be the Match held a bone marrow drive for 18 year old Laura Garcia and 17 year old Jose Rodriguez. They both need a bone marrow transplant to save their lives. And they had a tremendous amount of new registrants...as they should, it only involves filling out a form and a simple cotton swab of the inside of the cheek. Do you think you may want to register for the bone marrow registry??

So CALL (contact) Padres Contra el Cancer and Be the Match to find out how you can help these two AMAZING organizations! I know I have :)

Padres Contra el Cancer (Parents Against Cancer) http://www.iamhope.org

Be The Match (National Marrow Donor Program) http://bethematch.org

Stephanie's Day at CBS Studios and the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts at the Fox Studio Lot

2013-06-16T21:42:00.002-07:00

Steve, Stephanie and Sheilah Mauldin

This year's Stephanie's Day was bigger and badder than ever! And some of the 'Hola LA!' ladies were there to support and enjoy the great day.

Stephanie's Day is a resource fair that provides families with children impacted by autism and other special needs one place to gather valuable information, enjoy fun activities and much more! This year’s event took place on Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the CBS Studios (on Radford in Studio City). Parking and admission are both free which is music to any Angeleno's ear!

Since the event passed and the next one will not take place until the summer of 2014, I wanted to provide some valuable information and share the names of just some of the organizations that had informational booths at the event:

Ability First, Acing for Autism, Autism Speaks, Best Buddies, Boone Fetter Clinic, Center for Autism & Related Disorders, Creative Home Programs, Foothill Autism Alliance, Guidance Autism, Los Angeles Speech & Therapy Center, Safe Passage, Special Needs Network, The Help Group, UCLA Center for Autism Research & Treatment, Working with Autism

Lorena Alvarado, one of the producers of 'Hola LA!' and I enjoying some of the fun activities and running into our CBS friends, you know because 'Hola LA!' airs on KCAL9/CBS2 :)

I can save your life in heels

Imprinting our hands on the Stephanie's Day sign

A grand honor

And the Lady of the Day...Stephanie!!!!

Steve Mauldin (President & General Manager CBS2/KCAL9), Lorena (Producer of Hola LA!), Otto Petersen (CBS Exec Prod of Hola LA!), Kikey Castillo (Co-Host of Hola LA!)

Spring Cocktails at the Fox Studio lot in honor of the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts!

On Monday, June 10th, Fox Audience Strategy held a Spring Cocktail reception to not only honor the work of the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts (NHFA) but to also launch a new partnership that will build more NHFA student, alumni (and friends) content. Welcome remarks were made by SVP of Audience Strategy, Nicole Bernard, co-founders of NHFA, Jimmy Smits, Esai Morales, Merel Poloway (the widow of the late Raul Julia) and NHFA President, Felix Sanchez.

I had a great time hanging out with my amiga, Lorena, once again, as we chatted up friends and met some great new people...isn't that what it's all about anyways...meeting new people :)

In attendance: Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, Heather Kadin, Wanda de Jesus, Naya Rivera, Nicholas Gonzalez, Jesse Garcia, Jeremy Ray Valdez, Justina Machado, Benito Martinez, KIIS FM’s Karli From the Block, Adel L. Morales and so many other new faces of Young Hollywood.

Felix Sanchez, Jimmy Smits, Nicole Bernard, Esai Morales

Kikey and Lorena with Fox Audience Strategy's Nicole Bernard

Heather Kadin (President of Television of KO Paper Products), Kikey Castillo (Actress/TV Host), Robert Orci (Writer/Producer), Lorena Alvarado (Producer, Hola LA!)

Benito Martinez, Jeremy Ray Valdez, Lorena Alvarado, Jesse Garcia, Kikey Castillo, Nicolas Gonzales

Lorena, Esai Morales, Kikey

Lorena, Felix Sanchez, Kikey

Beautiful event and a beautiful LA evening, snapped this pic as I was leaving...made an impression and signified where I was at xoxo

Sharing the Silver Screen with Stars

2013-05-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

Last June I was blessed to be cast in 'Learning to Fly' an American Film Institute (AFI) short film for its Directing Workshop for Women program. In the film, I play a young mother to an imaginative little boy who develops a friendship with his odd neighbor that he believes could be a superhero.

This movie was just a sheer joy and pleasure to be a part of. From the talented director, Juliana Penaranda-Loftus, whom I instantly bonded with during our first meeting at the callback session, then there was Andrew Tenorio, my son in the film - one look at him and you just want to eat him up and already a pro at such a young age. My fellow castmates who are ridiculously talented, Michael J. Sielaff and Jayden Maddux. And of course the crew...so professional and kind.

LtoR: Actor - Kikey Castillo, Director - Juliana Penaranda-Loftus, Actor - Michael J. Sielaff, Actor- Jayden Maddux (front) & Actor - Andrew Tenorio (front)

Finally, after almost a year of waiting to see the film, AFI screened the Directing Workshop for Women showcase 2013 at the Directors Guild of America (DGA). There were 8 extremely talented women directors and 8 mind blowing short films. I was super impressed with the caliber of films and actors in all the movies and our film stood its ground solidly amidst the bevy of titanium films. I'd have to say, the ultimate reward for me was sharing the silver screen with some pretty amazing women actresses in Hollywood.

It started with actress Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect, The Mindy Project) who I really liked in Pitch Perfect...side note, I also ran into her in the ladies room at the HBO Golden Globes After Party looks like we run in the same circles LOL, Rumer Willis, graced us in a provocative yet tender film, Brooke Shields made a cameo, Ashley Williams (How I Met Your Mother, Saving Grace) whom you may not know by name yet but works so much, Mireille Enos (World War Z, The Killing) she looked familiar then a week later I see her in the trailer for the movie 'World War Z' playing Brad Pitt’s wife and I was like hey, there’s the women from the AFI short – pretty cool, Shohreh Aghdashloo (X-Men: The Last Stand, 24) I’m a big fan of hers, she’s a powerful actress with a commanding presence in everything she does.

AFI's Directing Workshop for Women Showcase Trailer

http://afi.com/showcase/dww/default.aspx

It was a flawless evening where I got to see spectacular films and mingle with my fellow cast and crew of ‘Learning to Fly’. I am so proud of the film we showcased and grateful to have been part of the process from start to finish, and what a finish it was! As I walked to my car in the pouring rain (it stormed that night and I do enjoy a good storm) I had a smile across my face, it was a smile mixed with a sense of accomplishment, pride and the feeling of “yes, yes, yes,...I LOVE BEING AN ACTOR!”

Special Thanks to:

Producer, Chrissy Kerns - an all around wonderful woman and terrific producer

Casting Director, Lauren Bass - who remembered me from long ago and called me in for the part

Writer, Traci Carroll - for your beautiful story

Hidden Village Films

Jason Loftus

All the crew - too many wonderful people to mention individually

I'm a Cindo de Mayo Parade Grand Marshal?

2013-05-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

Me along with my three other beautiful Hola LA! co-hosts we were the Grand Marshals for Cyress Park's annual Cinco de Mayo Parade!

What an gift to be included in the Cypress Park Parade which has a 22-year old tradition of having a Latino Celebrity serve as Grand Marshals - and this year Bel Hernandez, Dyana Ortelli, Naibe Reynoso and myself took that coveted honor - wow, even as I write this, I realize how so darn cool that is!

Personal moments that happened behind the scenes:

As Grand Marshals, our duties included a VIP Meet and Greet breakfast reception where we got to mingle with fellow entertainers and meet great people from the community. But it's never an Hola LA! outing without some sort of "excitement" happening. As it turns out, poor Dyana was lost and could not find the VIP reception location (so she missed breakfast, coffee and the meet and greet). Many calls and texts later and still lost, her phone died at the very point the parade was starting and our parade car was taking off...with out Dyana!! We three took off sad that Dyana got lost and had to miss the parade but, we had to go on and wave and say HOLA to all the beautiful faces of Cypress Park.

A favorite heart fullfilling moment on the parade route for me was when I would lock eyes with a little boy or girl and say "hi mija" or "hi mijo"...their eyes would grow wide as saucers and their smile would grow really big...that made my day each and every time.

Was the parade route really short? Or was I having too much fun? because before I knew it, we were parked at the festivities location - where we were to be introduced on stage and the fun party would continue with food and entertainment. As we were parked, still sitting in the car chatting and taking pictures, out of nowhere DYANA shows up! She missed the whole parade but she made it to the festivities. Apparently she found a cop who kindly drove her to us. As she sat shotgun (although it would have been hilarious to hear otherwise) she regally waved out of the cop car window - getting in her parade experience...lol. Reunited, we finished out our Grand Marshal duties strong and had a very fun day!

Excited about our sign!

Ready to take off, missing our colorful Dyana, no really behind the smiles we were sad :(

Still sad :( we managed to lift our spirits
I'm hoisting our Hola LA Celebrity Grand Marshal trophy! Cue song... "We are the Champions..."

Ta-Dah!! Real smiles of JOY as Dyana magically appears
Dyana was born wearing that sombrero LOL

On stage introduction to the crowd and officially presented our wonderful trophy

Special Thanks To:

Rafael Lopez, the parade’s celebrity liaison - you were just wonderful Rafa!

Ed Reyes, L.A. City Councilman has partnered with Cypress Park Neighborhood Council in helping with some of the city logistics and permits to host the parade

Cypress Park, for having us represent your wonderful city

New Episode Airs

Saturday, May 25th at 6:00pm on KCAL9

Sunday, May 26th at 4:30pm on CBS2

Latin Heat Article on the Cinco de Mayo Parade:
http://www.latinheat.com/2013/04/24/hola-la-hosts-grand-marshals-at-cinco-de-mayo-parade

5 Things You Don't Know About the 'Hola LA!' Hosts

2013-03-17T21:31:00.001-07:00

Hola LA! returns to CBS/KCAL9
on March 30, 7:00pm

And the hosts are getting personal!

I've asked my co-hosts to reveal five things about themselves that only their closest friends may know. Check out what they reveal to only my Livin' la Vida LA! blog readers.

Photo by:

Bel Hernandez

The CEO/Moderator

My life's motto is Just Do It!
I lived in Mexico City for 2 years working as a Mexican Folk dancer
I'm one of the authors and also on the book cover for 8 Ways to Say I love My Life and Mean It
I have 3 children, 2 grandchildren and the BEST husband in the world!
I recently made the switch from an iPhone to a Galaxy III

Photo by:

Kikey Castillo

The Actress/'In The City Gal'

My last audition was for an NBC TV Pilot
I take it as a huge compliment when people say I look like Eva Longoria
My favorite place to eat is Gratitude Cafe, and it's great for celeb spotting too!
I was very shy as a child
I once interviewed Anjelica Huston who's now on one of my favorite TV shows, Smash

Dyana Ortelli

The HAC (Host, Actress, Comedienne) and Fashion Victim!

I'm Spanish and Aztec. Does that make me"Spaz-tec"?
The first time I realized I was funny was when I tried to sing "Killing Me Softly" without being funny
I've been featured as "fashion victim" in The National Enquirer, Star, and People en Español (for reals!)
I hyper-ventilated in the ladies room at the Laugh Factory the first time I did stand-up comedy!
I don't play any instruments -- except for the organ :P

Naibe Reynoso

The Mom/Award Winning Journalist

I worked a red carpet event 10 days after giving birth to my son
I was once a guest co-host on The View
The book I would recommend to the first lady is "The Four Agreements"
My husband is a writer for the Disney show A.N.T. Farm
I used to host a weekly show dedicated to the Twilight franchise

We're baaaack so tune in Saturday, March 30, 7:00pm on KCAL9. We LOVE our wonderful viewers!!!

'Ravishing in Red' Photo Shoot

2013-02-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

Vince Gonzales and Kikey Castillo

"Anyone can be a cover model"

...according to Vince Gonzales, a photographer and dear friend of mine, his motto is "I can bring out the inner cover girl in anyone".

So when he asked if I would be his model for his glam shoot, I had a brief moment of doubt as I wondered if I could pull this off since I'm not 6 feet tall, I'm not rail thin nor do I have amazing chiseled cheek bones -- quite the opposite! I'm petite, with curves and ample soft cheeks BUT I really wanted to look and feel like a cover model, who doesn't right? Plus as an actress I do have a little dream of one day seeing myself on the cover of a fashion magazine. Half reluctant, half very excited, I said yes!!

The Results?? Let's just say that I'm very happy I put myself into Vince's capable hands because somehow I Razzled Dazzled that camera and pulled off a Ravishing in Red photo shoot!

But just so you know, it took a Village to Raise this Cover Model...a team of professionals were rounded up to make me look and feel picture perfect!

first person I called was Steve Galindo, my pal and stylist (thestyleguyde.wordpress.com). He secured the luxurious red dress, other outfits, shoes and a few other misc. stuff but he was so much more than that, he was a great moral support on set
then there was Narcisse Chico Kitabata the make-up & hair stylist (narcissechico.com), a friend of Vince's but I definitely look forward to working with her again
Lori Sandler of DragonHorse Studio (dragonhorsestudio.com) who loaned me the jewelry. Believe it or not, she was a Facebook Friend who I'd never met until the shoot
the wonderful producer, Donna Grillo (donnagrilloart.blogspot.com), or as I know her, Vince's better half
Lucy Eagleson, the talented videographer
and of course the mastermind behind it all, Vince Gonzales (vinpix.com), who shot all the knockout pictures

xoxoxoxoxoxox Ravishing in Red xoxoxoxoxoxox
Pictures & Video

One of my absolute favorites of the shoot, just really captures a side to me that is rarely seen

I was having fun twirling in the dress, you can see the glee in my eyes

Great shot that shows off the beautiful Dragon Horse jewelry but I think subliminally, I'm inviting you to the gun show...call it Pilates arms :)

I like this shot a lot, it captures me in a state of bliss

disclaimer: A mock cover, not actual...just for fun

And BAM!! COVER MODEL
They say if you can visualize it, it can come true and I can see it!!!

I LOVE the behind the scenes video

Behind The Scenes Glamour Photo-shoot with Kikey Castillo from VINPIX on Vimeo.

Kikey at the Golden Globes HBO After Party!!

2013-01-16T16:42:00.002-08:00

What a complete thrill it was for me to attend the Golden Globes HBO After Party. And the icing on the cake...I got to go with cool friends who are involved with the HBO show, Boardwalk Empire.

*Photo Blog*

Styled by: Steve Galindo, Make up by: Gisset Renteria, and Photo by: Chris Caldovino :)

Look Ma! I'm at the HBO After Party for the Golden Globes!

Photo by Vince Gonzales
Kikey Castillo and Boardwalk Empire's Chris Caldovino

Chris, thanks for throwing me under the bus with your peeps at Boardwalk Empire...it was all good fun though :)

Honored to be at this table meeting all the cool folks from the show. Yes, got to talk to Steve Buscemi (super cool and nice) but no pic...bummer!

Photo by Vince Gonzales
LtoR: Boardwalk Empire producer/writer Terry Winter, actress Karina Noelle, actress Kikey Castillo and Boardwalk Empire actor Chris Caldovino

What a class act Terry is, so engaging to talk to and down to earth, glad for his shows success and so fun getting to hang out with my amiga/sister Karina!

Photo by Vince Gonzales
LtoR: actress' Karina Noelle, Kikey Castillo, actor Chris Caldovino and Boardwalk Empire director/producer Tim Van Patten

Tim was another fun, amazing and down to earth guy - what a great time they must all have on the show.

Look who I ran into!! My friend and photographer extraordinaire, Vince Gonzales (hired to work the event taking photos of the HBO party). He snapped a quick photo with his phone then he dashed off to work the room taking pics of the celebrities

Photo by Vince Gonzales

In fact, here's one of Karina Noelle and I...yes, I just equated ourselves to celebrities :p

Photo by Vince Gonzales

One for the scrapbook, awe thank you Vince!

Finally done with his photog duties, Vince joined us for a bit. I'm so proud of him, the shot below is one of his from the night. It was chosen for the cover of Vogue Online! Awesome Vince :)

Photo by Vince Gonzales
here are his amazing shots of the night http://vinphoto.blogspot.com/2013/01/golden-globes-hbo-after-party.html

What an amazing night! I got to gaze at and at times "literally" rub elbows with actors, producers and directors that I admire. Seeing them up close and personal made my heart shine with delight knowing that I'm living the life I set out to live. Still more to achieve but it was a great acknowledgement by the divine that I'm on the right track.

Special heartfelt thanks to Karina Noelle, Peter Nieves and Chris Caldovino, thanks so much for including me in this special night...so much fun!!! ~ Kikey xoxo

Kikey Performs in "8 Ways To Say I Love My Life"

2012-11-09T09:49:00.001-08:00

Dates: November 3 - November 18, 2012

Times: Fri & Sat at 8pm, Sun two shows at 2pm & 7pm

Tickets: $20 General, $17 Seniors/Students, $15 Groups of 10+

The 2009 Imagen Award-winning show returns to CASA 0101 in celebration of the publication of the book by the same name. Featuring a collection of 8 life-affirming monologues written by 8 women.

The Book

The amazing book that launched the play.
A must read and a great gift for men and women alike.
To buy a copy click here: Amazon

I am thrilled to be working on this phenomenal all women (acted, written, directed) monologue show at new Casa 0101. And we are just rocking the house each and every performance.

We were reviewed by Abel Salas from Brooklyn & Boyle, here's what he said about my performance.

"Kikey Castillo appears first as the embodiment of Margo De Leon, a former Toastmaster’s club officer, in De Leon’s “Pillar of Strength” and then as a hopeful optimist in a piece entitled “Believing in Happiness” by Joanna Ilizaliturri Diaz. A petite performance dynamo, Castillo has collaborated with López for years in numerous and wide-ranging productions at Casa 0101. Of the three performers, she is thus the most at home here. That familiarity gives her characterizations a subtle authenticity that underscores the sadness and tragedy in both monologues and fuels the triumphant resolutions in both."

*Check out the Photo Blog*

Pre-show ritual, review lines and listen to IZ's 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow'. Really gets me in the right mood for my two beautiful monologues

Getting ready to go on!

Kikey performing Margo's monologue
Photo by: Patricia De La Rosa


Yvonne performing Susan's monologue Photo by: Patricia De La Rosa

Getting silly and having fun. Check this out, we have an Ivonne a Yvonne a Karina and a Kikey, must have been fate!

Karina performing Bel's monologue...this is the one I did in 2009
Photo by: Patricia De La Rosa

Ivonne performing Nancy's monologue
Photo by: Patricia De La Rosa

Kikey performing Joanna's monologue
Photo by: Patricia De La Rosa

The four wonderful actresses bringing the audience to its feet
Photo by: Patricia De La Rosa

Opening night post show introductions - The writers with their actresses. LtoR: Laura, Bel, Karina, Nancy, Ivonne, Joanna, Kikey, Margo, Josefina, Yvonne and Susan (not pictured Rita)

My family coming out to support me :) awww. My cousin Daniel and his wife Elba

Industry guest coming out to support - Casting Director and friend, Blanca Valdez

Industry guest coming out to support - James E. Blancarte Entertainment Lawyer and his client

Industry guests coming out to support - look who was in the audience, that's Gregory Nava in the back!! Also in the back Ernie T. Gritzewsky front row Dyana Ortelli, Naibe Reynoso, Yvonne DeLaRosa, Kikey Castillo, Lorena Alvarado, Barbara Martinez, and Ivonne Coll

Industry guests coming out to support - the lovely 'Hola! LA' hosts Naibe and Dyana came out to show Bel and I some LOVE

Industry guests keep coming out to support our show - actor Nick Gonzales also was there to get the patrons to sign up for the Bone Marrow Registry to help out his friend Alexandrea Vizcarra read their story here

Industry guests keep coming out to support our show - Jimmy Smits shook my hand and said "Amazing job, you were terrific" WOW :)

In honor of the show '8 Ways to Say I Love My Life' we have a whiteboard where we encourage anyone to write why they love their life, here is what I wrote
Photo by: Gustavo Stebner

Kikey Co-Hosts, 'HOLA! LA' on KCAL9 Los Angeles

2012-09-23T03:18:00.000-07:00

The first and only English-language TV talk show with a Latina POV !

HOLA! LA hosts and guest LtoR: Naibe Reynoso, Dyana Ortelli, Esai Morales, Kikey Castillo and Bel Hernandez

A not to miss premiere show

with VIP guests Esai Morales and John Leguizamo

Sunday, September 30th at 5pm

KCAL9/CBS Los Angeles

This is a dream come true!!! After so, so many YEARS of long hard work to bring our very own sweet show from concept to fruition to our ultimate goal - Network TV, it has finally happened.

How we got started with a goldmine of a show:

It started with a handful of talented people in a friends casting office in LA to brainstorm on realizing a talk show that included Latina women, because none of the shows anywhere on network TV were including the Latino voice and perspective. This lead to 'Let's Talk!' and we launched a successful run on the Internet for a few years winning over male and female fans all over the nation.

What the "Little Show That Could" did next:

We always had our sights set on TV, so we jumped onto KJLA a digital local cable station with a limited reach within the LA market. But no matter, we were finally on TV and our loyal fans continued their enthusiasm and support for our show. After a season run on KJLA we went into hiatus and bless our lucky stars...it was during this break that the BIG TV Dogs came a callin'.

My, how far we have come - Network TV:

We were elated beyond belief when we found out we had a meeting with CBS to talk about bringing on the show. In sports terms it would be like, "being called up to the majors" ...it was a BIG DEAL. The meeting went like a dream, CBS was IN and 'HOLA! LA' was born. Same great hosts, same great chemistry, same great type of content just elevated because hello it's CBS. I am personally so greatfull to CBS and everyone there who helped make 'HOLA! LA' possible.

Right after our very first meeting with CBS

And here we are the 'HOLA! LA' hosts LtoR: Naibe Reynoso, Dyana Ortelli, Kikey Castillo and Bel Hernandez

What's next for 'HOLA! LA':

We hope to keep brining you many more great 'HOLA! LA' shows, but it's really in the hands of the viewers, our awesome fans and the TV gods. It's just the way the TV industry works, so if I could ask for my Christmas present early :) I would ask for our fans to please support our show by:

spreading the word about our premier show, Sun 9/30 @5pm on KCAL9 (LA Only)
watching our premier show (you can even set your DVRs)
and finally writing/emailing CBS letting them know that you want to see more of our show - believe it or not letter campaigns to keep a show on the air work

We hope to keep bringing you more great shows!

Moi? A Cover Girl?

2012-08-17T10:27:00.001-07:00

Easy breezy beautiful COVERGIRL®

well I may not be a Maybelline cover girl just yettttt...and yes, would that be nice! But I have shown up at your doorstep, in your mail and even on your computer. Yes, indeed I am a COVERGIRL...of sorts....LOL but HEY I'm getting closer right?? I worked various modeling jobs this year and have happily been showing up in campaigns around the nation!

Knock Knock! Who's There? Why it's Kikey open your door and let me in.

I shot a national print campaign for Frito Lay snacks (for the English and Spanish market products). This one is for the Spanish market snacks of Frito Lay and was published in Hoy newspaper which is the second largest Spanish language daily newspaper in the United States.

behind the scenes: the short haired girl really was telling a good story, I think about her dog. We could not eat or drink the food as they are carefully displayed and positioned.

"Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hair shall keep the postmen from their appointed rounds"

Isn't that the United States Postal Service motto? Well thank goodness for those hard working men and women otherwise how on earth can I possible show up in your mail??? Yep, on your kitchen table is where you'll find me smiling right at you. This time I'm wanting you to buy Farmers Insurance.

behind the scenes: This job was a stock photo shoot so I'll never know where it will show up (what's up with the hair...geeze, comb please). My HS friend Kim, from Oregon, posted this photo on FB saying I just arrived in her mail :)

Hey! You look athletic, outdoosy and in good shape! Wanna buy some shoes?

Sure you do and I recommend Keen shoes! Just look at me, I'm having a grand ole time! Keen shoes hired me to promote their 2012 women's spring and summer line. And the shoes felt fantastic to boot. You can see this add in real time on Keen's website by clicking here http://www.keenfootwear.com/us/en/shoes/women/

behind the scenes: this was nearing sunset on a cold Los Angles day. You can't see my goose bumps but they're there! It was a fun day of shooting as we were told to just have fun and be playful.

behind the scenes: snapped during a wardrobe change...which happened in the car, behind a towel, behind the car...life of a model LOL

Latino's sing their American Patriotic Pride

2012-07-26T11:47:00.002-07:00

David Damian Figueroa

I'm so proud of my friend David Damian Figueroa! Not only is he MALDEF's Vice President of Strategic Development and Communications, and darn good at it darn it, he is also Eva Longoria's BFF (hello?? who wouldn't want to be in his shoes!!) but now he's singing (who knew he could sing!) Phew! You tired yet David Damian?

Album Cover

This go-getter is a featured vocalist on "America, Our Home" by the group Ronstadt Generations, who released their album earlier this month.

Here's the COOL skinny on the album - "AMERICA, OUR HOME" is a collection of patriotic songs expressing Latino pride in America, with part of the proceeds to benefit MALDEF.

All the songs are all performed in English and infused with Mexican musical styles such as bolero, cumbia and son jarocho. Sounds fun huh? Maybe you'll want to shake your bon bon and take a listen to excerpts here http://www.ronstadtgenerations.com/#!audio/cemg.

But why just listen to the excerpts when you can buuuuy the album via digital download here http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/RonstadtGenerations and remember a portion of the proceeds benefit MALDEF. Sounds like a twofer to me!

Ronstadt Generations

What I personally like is that Ronstadt Generations wanted to express the ongoing pride of the Latino community in the United States, which is something I am completely on board with and something you don't usually hear much about on the news or elsewhere.

Another cool tid bit is that the song arrangements were developed under the musical leadership of Michael J. Ronstadt, the younger brother of famed recording artist Linda Ronstadt. Remember her?? Oh yeah you DO...song's like 'You're No Good', 'Blue Bayou' (one of my favs), 'Don't Know Much'. So you know this is album is gonna be good, heck all those genius musical genes run in the family!

I was bad, I cheated on LA with NYC!

2012-05-17T09:03:00.002-07:00

I cheated on Livin' la Vida LA! and had a brief yet smoking hot escaped with New York City.

My racy indiscretion with the Big Apple had my heart pulsing with excitement and I didn't want it to end. I felt naughty, I felt adventurous, I even brought along a list of sexy things I wanted “TO DO” with my unexplored city lover. Oohh yeah...some of my "to do's" I did, some I just couldn't fit in and some things were completely improvised, which were my most titillating memories of all.

**My photo journal of my escapade with the city of New York**

I got off the airplane and headed straight to a New York Yankees game! Totally impromptu (awesome memory) and that hat I'm putting on, I just bought it as I was exiting that very subway for $5.00!!!

I think I'm busted! Nooo, not for the hat...I think that cop totally knows I'm with Livin' la Vida LA! Maybe I'll just sign an autograph for him and he'll forget I was even here LOL.

Saw the Broadway play, 'Magic Bird', which I knew nothing about - I thought it was a play about an Enchanted Parrot or something. It turned out to be a sweet story of two basketball legends and I really liked it.

Look I'm on Broadway too (I'm a Triple Threat ha ha!) and Times Square...ahhhhhhhhhhh So thrilling.

Oh yes, then there was my glorious morning jog in Central Park here's where I fell in love. The early morning energy of the big city, the hustle and bustle of New Yorkers going about their lives and the serenity and beauty of this park...I thought...Yeah, I could live here.

My view as I jogged around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in Central Park. I kept thinking that Charlotte from Sex and the City always ran this in the show and I was like hehehe now I am too! I'm just like one of the women on 'Sex and the City'....but which one am I most like? Hmmmmmmm??

The famous and beautiful cherry trees were blooming their beautiful pink flowers...ahh, just majestic.

A tour of the financial district...That's right, WALL STREET, (pointing to the sign). I remember back in 2nd grade drawing a picture of me working in NY...there might still be a chance...for the right role of course.

I HAD to go to Serendipity!!! I'm about to totally enjoy their signature dessert, the famous Frozen Hot Chocolate - sooo good.

MMMMMMmmm MMMM Good!

You know what else is MMMMMMmmm MMMM Good? A good love story and 'Ghost' on Broadway did not disappoint. Hold on, before you say anything, I too thought it was going to be super lame and cheesy but, I was wrong, it was surprisingly really good!

A little shopping in SoHo, feeling oh so very chic - - wait, who's that girl with the iPhone? Is she gonna mug me??

Phew! She didn't take my Dean and Deluca Iced coffee. Now where is that boutique Digs?

Ha Ha! Found you Digs...a kick ass trendy SoHo boutique which came highly recommended. They threw in the black nail polish which I immediately put on, feeling sooo New York and ready to go out tonight!

Ditched all the tourist trap night spots and partied with local New Yorkers in the Upper East Side.

New York come to Mami Chula! I think I LOVE YOU!

My "Naughty" NY To Do List:

- Eat a slice of NY Pizza - did it!

- Eat a NY Bagel - did it!

- Eat a black and white cookie - did it!

- Go to Serendipity - did it!

- Go to MOMA or The Met Museum - next time

- See the Brooklyn Bridge - next time

- Go to the New York Botanical Garden - next time

- See a Broadway Play - did it!

- Go to SoHo - did it!

- Go to Financial District - did it!

- Walk through Central Park - did it!

- Go to the High Line - next time

- Meet up with NY friends - did it!

New York, you were magnificent and I'll never forget you, we had a fun tryst you and I - but I must return to my true love, Los Angeles. I'll never forget you New York and who knows...there might even be a "next time" but for now adios you juicy Big Apple (as I affectionately called you) Je T'aime.

White Hot Impact Awards

2012-04-04T10:03:00.001-07:00

The 2012 Impact Awards were one for the record books this year. It’s already been a month since they happened and I’m still enthused about all the positive energy and forward thinking that was abound that evening.

The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) Impact Awards recognizes outstanding contributions to the positive portrayal of Latinos in media. And I was there along with many other Latino leaders who came together to commemorate the achievements of the 2012 Local Impact Awards recipients:

Actress, Michelle Rodriguez (Avatar, Fast and Furious movies)

TV Personality, Cesar Millan (the Dog Whisperer)

Actor, Benjamin Bratt (Miss Congeniality, Traffic)

Actor, Efren Ramirez (Napolean Dynamite, Crank)

Actress, Aubrey Plaza (Parks and Recreation)

Music artist, Taboo (Black Eye Peas) and

Director, Chris Weitz. (The Golden Compass, New Moon, A Better Life)

Sounds awesome right? And I started this very cool evening on the red carpet. You would think I’m quite adept at doing the pomp and circumstance of this grand old Hollywood tradition but truth be told, I had butterflies in my stomach this night...not sure why but...I kinda liked it.

I realized that the nerves in my stomach, as I was about to step out on the red carpet to get photographed and interviewed, were a subtle reminder that this could never get old for me and that I would never take these opportunities for granted. When the flash bulbs started going off taking pictures of me and the interviews that followed...Gosh, I felt alive and my head was swimming in the realization that not long ago, I used to daydream about being at these types of Hollywood parties, doing their red carpets and mingling with these types of Hollywood people! Butterflies in my stomach...wow, never felt so good!

Actress & Host Kikey Castillo styled by: Steve Galindo photo by: Angela Maria Ortiz S.

friend and actor Dante Acosta and actress Kikey Castillo photo by: Angela Maria Ortiz S.

actress Kikey Castillo being interviewed by media

And get this, As soon as I walked off the red carpet I was greeted by a silver platter filled with sparking flutes of Moet & Chandon champagne and these beautiful woman holding giant sized Moet & Chandon bottles...had to take a pic, oh and Yes, I will take one, thank you...Wow! Now this is Celeb style!!

After my friend and I basked in the VIP treatment for a bit we headed downstairs to the reception area to mingle before the gala.

On my way there, I had to descended the grand stairs at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (the hotel Julia Roberts stayed in the movie Pretty Women) that opened up into an opulent setting where the reception vibe was buzzing with energy. As I was taking each descending step I had this brief surreal moment where I felt like the Belle of the Ball gliding gracefully down the majestic grand staircase making my entrance to the ball, I know, it's silly and obviously I watch too many movies and TV!!! But it really felt special so I tucked away the warm fuzzy feeling in my memory to relish at a later time.

Stairs that opened up to the reception area photo by: Jose Vargas Ulloa

After my whimsical thought passed and I set my two feet solidly on ground (and out of the clouds) I was greeted by many of my friends in the "biz" including my friends at MALDEF - David Damian Figueroa, Thomas A. Saenz, Cynthia Gutierrez and actor Jordi Vilasuso, it had been awhile since I saw them last...since the 2010 LA MALDEF Gala where I was the Mistress of Ceremonies. After some fun mingling with them and meeting new people it was off to our seats for the main program.

LtoR: Thomas A. Saenz, actress Kikey Castillo, Cynthia Gutierrez, actor Jordi Vilasuso and David Damian Figueroa

As a guest of Efrain Fuentes, Director of Diversity Programs at Disney, I of course had the honor and pleasure to sit at the Disney sponsored table, Disney was also the dinner sponsor for the event and what a showing! Usually the food at these events can be a little less than tasty probably due to the mass production of the food but this year - it met my foodie standards!

Director, Diversity Programs at Disney, Efrain Fuentes and actress Kikey Castillo

Disney table up front and to the right...one of the best seats in the house :) photo by: Jose Vargas Ulloa

The Masters of Ceremonies for the evening were actor Rob Schneider and Spanish actress Claudia Bassols - who play Rob and Maggie on CBS's ¡Rob! Truth be told, I've been a fan of Rob Schneider for a while! Let's just say I saw 'Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo' and 'The Animal' in the theaters…yep he got my box office money :) They were both really good and I had the pleasure of meeting them along with other cast members of ¡Rob! during the dinner intermission.

What is the dinner intermission? Well, about twenty minutes into the program there's an intermission where you eat and meet the other guests at your table before the program resumes. But what really ends up happening...everyone jumps out of their seats to mingle and rub elbows with the whole room and for me it was super great fun this year.

I usually tend to get shy during these moments but not this time, I was in butterfly mode and was very comfortable making new acquaintances. Of course it didn't hurt that I had some Girl Power behind me...I ran into friend, Olivia Campos-Bergeron from CBS, who introduced me to quite a few people including the cast of ¡Rob! and her friend Alicia, publicist for CBS, also helped me make the rounds (what amazing gals huh?)

LtoR: Oliva Campos-Bergeron, Alicia, actress Claudia Bassols and actress Kikey Castillo

actress Kikey Castillo and actor Rob Scheider

actress Kikey Castillo and actor Cheech Marin

The two Kiki's, Comedienne and wonderful guest of 'Let's Talk!', Kiki Melendez and actress/host Kikey Castillo

Writer, Lemise Rory, and actress Kikey Castillo. I performed one of her pieces at a CBS showcase

And it was during the dinner intermission that I was able to steal Alex Nogales away for a slight moment, just long enough to take a picture with him and chat for a few brief moments. Who's Alex Nogales? Well to me he is a friend and a fan of my acting work ever since he saw me in the Imagen Award Winning stage production of "8 Ways to Say I Love My Life and Mean It!" and ever since then he's been like a little angel to me.

But the public knows him as the man behind NHMC, President and CEO of National Hispanic Media coalition (NHMC) and a long time advocate of Latino rights in the entrainment business. And of course, he is the man responsible for the NHMC Impact Awards... among many other great achievements.

actress Kikey Castillo with President and CEO of NHMC Alex Nogales

After receiving a super great compliment from him about the future of my acting career, it was back to our seats for the rest of the gala. Wait, this man believes in my future acting career?! Holly Cow!!...OK, tucking this one away for a later time too.

This is where the program really took off - the honorees accepting their awards. And oh! What a magnificent treat it was! Each and every one of them were so raw and open with us. You could feel that they were letting us peek into their personal thoughts, lives, feelings and emotions. There was a hushed intimacy in the room as they spoke to us with their hearts open as if we were their trusted friends...it was pretty darn special.

A notable moment was when Demian Bichir, (Oscar nominee for Best Actor in 'A Better Life' but probably most well known for playing Esteban Reyes on Showtime's 'Weeds') made a surprise appearance to hand the Impact Award to friend Chris Weitz who was honored for directing 'A Better Life'.

actor Demian Bichir and director Chris Weitz photo by: Jose Vargas Ulloa

I wrapped up this glorious evening at the VIP after party for some more fun then soon after I was whisked away by my gallant white steed...ahem, aka my white SUV. And as I drove off in stunned silence reminisncing of the fantastical evening where my dreams and reality melted into one ---- a night where I was inspired by the honorees on stage, a night of seeing old friends and meeting new ones, a night where I stepped out of my comfort zone and was embraced with open arms in Hollywood, a night where I secretly had another dream, that one day soon I too would be on that stage to receive an award.

These are the moments in my life where it feels so pleasantly real that I am here. Here...living, breathing, working and socializing in Hollywood...WOW, this is certainly my crazy Hollywood Life and as my blog's name aptly captures it ...LIVIN' LA VIDA LA!

Kikey Takes on the Radio Air Waves

2012-01-29T16:48:00.000-08:00

"Born with a face for Radio"....Oh snap! Does that pop culture saying apply to me now that I'm doing radio? Uhmm, let's just say "long time listener, first time caller" say's no.

So guess what guys? I've added radio DJ to my resume. Yep, I'm doing a show called, "The Weekly Wrap Up with Ken August and Kikey Castillo". My name is in the title...how cool! Each week Ken (he prefers Gus) and I discuss the latest news headlines with a youthful and comical perspective. This is NOT a boring news show, Oh No! Not when you add me to the mix. Don't believe me? I invite you to listen.

Kikey and Gus

Pilot show 1/22/12:

Gus and Kikey discuss the week’s top stories including a Super Bowl rematch; the GOP race and Newt’s sexual prowess (how does he do it?); the worst ship captain of all time and why it doesn’t pay to be an Iranian nuclear scientist.

(email followers, just click on the link below)

Tune in weekly, Sunday's at 9pm PST

here: The Weekly Wrap Up Show at www.skidrowstudios.com

If you miss our Sunday night show you can always still catch it on the replay using the same link as above.

What do I think of my new role as a DJ? Here's what I think...

That's how you do it here in Hollywood. You don't sit around waiting for things to be handed to you, You MAKE IT HAPPEN. There is a well known saying we all use in the entertainment business, "work begets work". And Hollywood, I AM taking you by storm!

During our show 1/29/12

I didn't know pictures were going to be taken...I would have dolled up!

"Night Sexies" that is my sign off :)

Wine Tasting at Malibu Wines

2012-01-19T10:27:00.000-08:00

See it spells wine :)

W - I - N - E, What's that Spell? Wine! Wine!

I do love good wine and wine tasting but when I don't have time to head out a few hours to a local winery I hop, skip and jump to Malibu. Or at least I did this time.

Who knew I could get all the benefits of a fancy winery so close to home!

Join me as I give you a lively and entertaining wine tasting tour

Go Wine Tasting with Kikey - just click play

Are you an email follower and cant see the video? Click here Wine Tasting with Kikey

Photos of Malibu Wines
photos courtesy of Jason Ng

In a blink of an eye I was worlds away from the LA hustle and bustle and found myself in a beautiful, lush serene setting. Keep in mind it's January...this place gets even more dazzling in spring/summer

Here's the wine house where you walk up and order your wine tasting flights or bottle of wine

Then find a seat and enjoy the delightful beverage. Oh yeah, you'll want to pack a lunch or snacks to go with the wine

There's plenty of open space to walk around and off beat things to look at...

...and get silly with

Come out and enjoy Malibu Wines, CHEERS!

Malibu Wines
31740 Mulholland Highway
Malibu, California 90265
818-865-0605
www.malibuwines.com

Vida Dulce: Chocolate Chip Cookies

2012-01-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

I'm going to share a little secrete with you - I have a weakness for sweets, Ahhhhhh! Yes, it's true! As much as I love eating healthy (green smoothies, organic foods, limited carbs) and working out regularly (hiking, pilates, gym time)...It's just pretty darn difficult for me to ixnay the cookies, cake, ice cream, gelato, pastries...especially if it's chocolate, Mmmmmmmmm.

Giant Auntie Em's Kitchen Cookies

Well, there it is - and since admittedly, I will never give up my annoyingly lovable sweet tooth, you know what I'm going do? Flaunt it and tempt YOU with my confectionately sweet findings! Aren't I devilishly nice. That's right, I said findings, with an (Sssss)...more to come this year.

**Another fabulous ideas struck me this year. Introducing...Video Segments of my blog...YAY!!**

So click PLAY to view my video and check out the photo blog that follows.

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I visited 'Auntie Em's Kitchen' to savor their Chocolate Chip Cookie, which was featured on the Food Network Channel, Check It Out

Are you an email follower and cant see the video? Then click here Chocolate Chip Cookie Video

Auntie Em's Kitchen, yep, the name comes from the 'Wizard of OZ' is a charming little restaurant, marketplace and cafe

Once inside you are enveloped by a whimsical entryway bursting with colors that only the child inside of you could have imagined

But I wasn't there to paint my pallet with their delightful seasonal food menu, Oh No! To quote, the wonderful Sesame Street character, Cookie Monster, "COOKIES!!! UMM-NUM-NUM-NUM-NUM!!!"

As the waiter glided over to me about to charm me with his best smile, I burst out with "two cookies please". Not two for me silly, one for me and one for my friend, Jason. You were thinking me an oink, oink, huh?

As quick as a force 5 tornado (wink wink) I had this giant, flat, hard looking cookie staring me right in the face, challenging me to nibble on it

But I looked at it slightly disenchanted and thought? Huh, how could you, a tortilla looking cookie possibly satisfy my craving for a soft, gooey chocolate chip cookie? Look, Mr. Cookie, let's get something straight, I'm a warm soft cookie gal, not a crusty, crunchy, dunk it in coffee or milk gal

But...I was sitting there already with the cookie in front of me, what was I gonna do? Not eat it? Puleeze, it's a cookie folks, of course I'm gonna eat it. It's gonna be good right?

'Itsy bitsy spider', in goes the cookie

I must be in Kansas (you knew that was coming somewhere, huh?) because me loves this frisbee looking cookie. Although, I judged it by it's rough and tough exterior, I was fooled. It was surprisingly soft and chewy (in the center) and generously covered in quarter sized chocolate chips - what a treat. It was only on the outer edges that it was crunchy but I liked it. The crunchy crumbs tantalizingly melted in my mouth leaving my taste buds savoring a carmelly taste...mmmmmmmmm

Now, why didn't I get coffee or milk to go with this, hello??

So, here's what I say: "Put 'em up! Put 'em up!" said the Cowardly Lion, "to your mouth", I say. This cookie befriends the hard and soft cookie camps. It's delightfully soft, it's just the right amount of crunch -- it's the best of both cookie worlds! Only one slight problem, you might feel like a total piggly wiggly if you devour the whole thing (psst, like I did) but what's life, if your aren't livin'!

Auntie Em's Kitchen
4616 Eagle Rock Blvd.,
Los Angeles, CA 90041
http://www.auntieemskitchen.com/

Hit the Rewind Button - A look back into 2011

2011-12-30T12:29:00.000-08:00

Each time we close out the year we immediately set our sights straight into the New Year. We look forward to and even yearn for a clean slate, a fresh start, a New Year full of more excitement, love, money, success...we all do this, even me.
This year, before zooming into your New Years Resolutions or as I like to call them, goals, take a moment to reflect on your life's events that occurred in 2011 (the good and yes, even the bad) and honor them, because without those events happening in your life, it wouldn't have brought you to this very point, right here right now.

sooo...I'd like to share with you my 2011 moments that I want to cherish and reflect on before moving into the next amazing chapter (year) of my life.

Here's to 2012!!!!! But first...

Kikey's 2011 Year In Review

I moved into my very own flat! No, the wall did not remain orange lol!

Had an amazing photo interview with famed photographer Araldo di Crollalanza

Started a Snowboarding Crew...and growing! Let me know if you want to join.

Celebrated my bday not Once...

...not Twice (at the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood)

but Three Times!! (at Backstage Bar & Grill doing some karaoke and dancing)

Joined a co-ed softball team. I was a kickass second baseman!!

Became a Royal Wedding Watcher. I loved it :)

My beloved talk show 'Let's Talk' aired on TV!!...

...it was seen in homes all over LA - That's me!

Won 2 Gold Medals at the LA International Wushu Tournament. Me and Master Hu.

'Livin' La Vida LA!' blog was born in July

Was named LA's Rising Talent...this was COOL!

As part of 'Let's Talk!' I got to grace the red carpet at the Alma Awards

Hometown newspaper writes story on me...so amazing! What a way to close out the year.

Let's move into 2012 with gratitude and appreciation for all that happened to us in 2011

Hometown Girl Makes Good: Kikey Castillo's story "From Fields to Footlights"

2011-12-14T14:51:00.000-08:00

I got my Christmas present early this year and it came wrapped in a pretty HUGE bow -- the front page of the lifestyle section of my hometown newspaper!

That's right!!! I couldn't believe when I got the call from writer, Kathy Aney, from the East Oregonian Newspaper from back home asking to interview me. I was floored and flattered all at the same time, actually, I was feeling many different emotions. She said that Cathy Minnick (the mother of my high school sweetheart - whom I had kept in touch with up until a few years ago) had wrote in telling them I would make a great story with all my accomplishments here in Hollywood.

After a video Skye interview, many back and forth emails with Kathy, and interviews from my best friend, Amy Jewett Hoffert and cousin, Jose Navarro...Voila!

I am so proud of this piece and I hope it inspires may others out there to follow their dreams.

*Thank you to Kathy Aney for writing my story with such warmth and wit and to Cathy Minnick for making this possible*

Give! Give! Give! this Holiday Season - Give the Gift of Volunteerism

2011-12-10T10:26:00.001-08:00

Volunteering this holiday season can bring about some indescribable gifts back to us. Most often when we think of volunteering or doing philanthropic endeavors we think we are changing the lives of those people in need. Which in the big picture, we are and that's the whole beautiful point of doing this selfless work, but what we often fail to see is that...it is they who give us the greatest gifts.

The Gift of Perspective 'Are our lives really that difficult?' The Gift of their Smile which can disarm our guarded hearts. The Gift of their Laughter that we feel as warmth in center of our chests...our soul. The Gift of their Hug that makes us feel helpless and empowered all at the same time. The Gift of their Gratitude, how their eyes say thank you without a single word being spoken. There is no greater gift than being someone's philanthropic angel.

Don't know how to get started? Or who is taking volunteers?
Well let me tell you!

Big Sunday
Volunteer Calendar (Los Angeles)

Big Sunday has made it an easy one stop shop volunteer calendar. Scroll down on page to find out who is organizing events and accepting volunteers. http://www.bigsunday.org/get-involved/holiday-list-2011

Great volunteer ideas for those who don't live in LA or even if you do!

- Donate blankets to a pet shelter for the cold winter months
- Volunteer at your local senior citizens center or nursing home
- Organize a clothing drive at your church and donate it to a woman's shelter
- Sever food at your local homeless/skid row shelter
- Drop off a toy at your local Toys for Tots donation center
- Contribute food to your local food drive
- Assemble your own brown bag lunches with toiletry items and pass out to the homeless who ask for money at the street corners or businesses you frequent

Here is what I did

Roy was a bright spot on my day. His fun and cheerful spirit is apparent by his holiday decoration

Culver City Senior Center Annual Holiday Party

I volunteered at the Culver City Senior Center Annual Holiday Party for the disabled elderly. For four fun hours I got to blow up balloons, serve food and drinks, escort blind women to the restroom and mingle with the magnificent party goers and fellow volunteers. I was full of holiday spirit and I was simply soaring with glee.

Now go out there and put yourself of this list!

Happy Holidays Everyone! And many thanks for being a fan of my blog.

Coca-Cola Tour: Adelante Los Angeles

2011-12-05T21:20:00.001-08:00

What did I do with my Saturday?

I joined more than 300 Southern California Latinas and attended the Coca Cola Tour: Adelante Los Angeles Forum. A wonderful event created to ignite a national movement to improve our lives.

The Adelante Tour is created by Latina inspirational speaker and media entrepreneur Nely Galán (“The Swan”, “Celebrity Apprentice”), in association with Count Me In for Women’s Economic Independence (CMI), the leading national not-for-profit provider of resources, business education, and community support for women entrepreneurs and Coca-Cola.

Sounds fun right? Well it got better!

Bel, Elia and I arrived bright and early in the morning at the beautiful Casa del Mar Hotel in Santa Monica on the beach, overlooking the beautiful ocean. Equally beautiful was the conference room - very luxurious.

Casa del Mar Hotel on the beach

the conference room but not wedding decorated

Before the event even started we were treated to red carpet pictures, what a great way to kick off the day. At least for me it is :)

Elia Esparza, Kikey Castillo and Bel Hernandez

Kikey Castillo

After a decaf cup of coffee and eyeballing the beautiful continental breakfast spread (can't have sugar right now) we found our seats and readied ourselves for whatever was to come.

Naibe, Kikey, Bel and Elia

During the day we got to hear from very inspirational, wise and empowering women. The three key speakers were:

Sandra Cisneros, acclaimed novelist, poet, educator and Latina advocate who has been awarded the MacArthur Genius Award, will lead the Begin (Empieza) segment of the Program.

This mujer is COOL, she is very spiritual and metaphysical in a mother earth sort of way. She spoke my language.

Nely Galán first generation Latina and self-made media mogul, who was the first Latina president of a U.S. TV network (Telemundo), Emmy Award-winning producer of over 600 episodes of television in Spanish and English, including the hit reality series “The Swan” and the only Latina to appear on Celebrity Apprentice with Donald Trump. She will lead the Continue (Sigue) segment of the program. www.nelygalan.com

Whoa, I love this woman! What a tour de force...what a life (good and bad). She really made me feel like anybody can achieve greatness you just have to want it bad enough and do something about it to get it.

Nely at the podium

Nell Merlino, Founder and President of Count Me In for Women’s Economic Independence and the creative force behind Take Our Daughters to Work Day, will lead the Arrive (Llega) portion of the Forum. Merlino’s mantra is: “Before you grow your business, you need to grow yourself.” Her segment focused on building financial strength and discovering what you really want.

I was in a bit of an awe to meet the woman behind 'Take Our Daughters to Work Day'

The great day was topped off with a great treat for me! I got interviewed by 2 media outlets: CNN en Espanol (thank you Naibe) but I totally feel like I butchered it as I got nervous speaking Spanish off-the-cuff and trying to sound intelligent LOL and for Coca-Cola Tour: Adelante (in English, went MUCH better!)

Media interview for Coca-Cola Tour: Adelante

And that's how I spent my Saturday. It was a nice change from my usual running errands or hanging out and I felt ALIVE, EMPOWERED and INSPIRED - I'd say, not a bad way to spend my Saturday!

And here is the CNN en Espanol interview, where I actually came off sounding not too shabby!

Join the Adelante community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CocaColaTourAdelante

Livin' Green: Farmers Market

2011-11-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

This little chicky went to the organic farmers market and went mmmm mmmm mmmm all the way home.

One of my fun ‘green’ weekend traditions is to shop at the Organic Farmers' Market on Third Street at the Santa Monica Promenade for my fruits and veggies.

No wisecracks about my melons :p

Buying the best quality fruits and veggies has become imperative in my diet now that I am blending/juicing with my Vitamix. I LOVE my Vitamix - like LOVE IT - I’ll blog about this topic later because it deserves a blog of its own.

Anyhow…my little weekend tradition has a way of bringing me joy – maybe it’s being outside in the nice weather near the ocean with palm trees surrounding me, maybe it’s the good people watching, the great deals on organic produce… or maybe because for a brief moment I feel as if I’m in Europe (which I’m totally enamored with).

But actually, I know it’s all of the above and the fact that I’m helping my local economy and the environment.

Benefits of shopping at the Farmers Market

Benefits the local farmer

Strengthens the local economy

Fruits and vegetables are grown locally which means they are picked when perfectly ripened

Prices, especially for organic items, are often lower than at grocery stores

Environmental impact from food transportation is lessened

Have you ever shopped at a farmers market? If so, YAY you – keep doing it, if not, make it a point to give it a try this year, you’ll be doing your wallet, body and planet good.

Click here http://www.farmernet.com/events/cfms to find your local California farmers market. If not in California a simple Google search will provide you with a farmers market location near you.