Los Angeles Times
Ventura County Edition
Section: Ventura County Life
Page: J-6
Date: April 19, 1990

KIDS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Two Worlds:
Combining Adolescence, Stardom;

By: Robin Loewenthal

(Article does not appear in full-
only parts relevant to Kellie Martin)

Away from the fast track glitz of Los Angeles and Hollywood, kids are still able to be kids in Ventura County. But they can also make it big in show biz. There are plenty of talented young people in the area. Four Conejo Valley youngsters who have hit the big time have managed to attain the best of both worlds by balancing family values and adolescent pursuits with careers.

KELLIE MARTIN

Fourteen-year-old Kellie Martin, with her trademark large, round red glasses, has become familiar to Sunday night television viewers as Becca, Corky's smarty-pants sister on "Life Goes On."

The family oriented series debuted last fall on ABC. Critics praised the show for it's portrayal of a young man with Down's syndrome (played by Chris Burke) who attends mainstream classes at his sister's high school.

Kellie's acting career began when she was 7 years old. She has been in more than 30 commercials and has guest- starred on numerous TV series, including "Dallas," "The Tracy Ullman Show," "thirtysomething," and "Mr. Belvedere." In addition, Kellie has appeared in feature films, including "Troop Beverly Hills," and has per- formed voice-overs for cartoon programs.

During a normal school week, Kellie can be found on the set of "Life Goes On." She and her mother, Debbie, are usually at the Burbank Studios at 9 a.m. and often don't get home before midnight, although she is limit- ed by law to working a maximum of 9 1/2 hours daily. "It's a crazy schedule," Kellie said, "but that's what it takes and I'm used to it."

A high school freshman, Kellie has three hours of school each day with tutor Marge Schaifer, who ensures that learning is a high priority. After graduation, she would like to study theater or fashion design.

Despite her success, Kellie's family comes first. On a recent Saturday morning Kellie baked peanut butter blossom cookies for younger sister Heather's basketball team.

"She's playing her championship game today," Kellie said, "so we're going to cheer her on." ..........