Let me tell you a story about Holly Robinson Peete. The first time she ever stepped in front of a TV camera, she completely flubbed her lines. And who could blame her? She was only five years old. Holly was supposed to greet "Hi, Gordon," but instead, she called out, "Hi, Daddy." Gordon, by the way, was played by her dad, Matt Robinson, on PBS’ beloved Sesame Street. "It was a traumatizing moment," Holly recalls with a laugh, "but I got to hold Big Bird’s hand, and those studio lights? They felt magical. From that day forward, I was hooked. I wanted to be in front of the camera."
Holly’s dream of becoming an actress didn’t just stay a childhood wish—it became her reality. Since the late '80s, Holly’s been lighting up our screens in iconic TV shows like 21 Jump Street, Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper, Mike & Molly, and more. She’s also invited us into her life through reality series like For Peete’s Sake and Meet the Peetes. Her latest flick, The Journey Ahead, premieres on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries on August 14. This movie is something special, folks.
Why Holly Loved Taking on The Journey Ahead
So, Holly, tell us about your new film, The Journey Ahead. What made you say yes?
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Well, the script was a gem. It’s a female buddy flick, but not just any buddy flick—it’s about two women from different walks of life finding common ground. Working with Kaylee Bryant, who I didn’t know before this project, was incredible. And here’s the kicker: there was this full-circle moment. In the movie, I play an actress who’s had it all, except love and real friendship. For the film, they recreated a poster of me from the ‘80s. Guess what? They used an old headshot from 21 Jump Street. Shooting in Vancouver, where 21 Jump Street began, made it feel like destiny.
Her Dad’s Warnings About Showbiz
It’s no secret that Holly’s dad, Matt Robinson, wasn’t exactly thrilled about her diving into acting. Did he try to steer her away from the spotlight?
Oh, absolutely. My dad didn’t want me anywhere near Sesame Street. He knew I had that showbiz bug, and he figured if I got to hang with Ernie, Bert, and Kermit the Frog, there’d be no turning back. So, I begged and pleaded until he finally gave in. Once I got a taste of it, there was no looking back.
Did he eventually come around and support her career?
Yes, but only after I finished college. He insisted I get an education first. I graduated from Sarah Lawrence in 1986, and while I had plans to go to grad school, I took a couple of acting gigs. One thing led to another, and before I knew it, 21 Jump Street came along. That show changed everything, and grad school became a distant dream.
Behind-the-Scenes Memories From Her TV Hits
What’s one of Holly’s favorite memories from 21 Jump Street?
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There are so many, but one stands out. In the second season, my character, Judy Hoffs, had to dress up like a milk carton for a kids’ classroom scene. She was supposed to feel humiliated, but honestly? It was hilarious. I had such a blast playing that scene.
And from Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper? Any standouts?
Oh, absolutely. There was this episode called “Down in the Dumps.” My character lost Mark’s lottery ticket, so we had to dig through a dumpster to find it. The physical comedy was off the charts. We were behind a Mexican restaurant, and I got a heaping helping of refried beans poured on my head. It was one of the funniest sitcom episodes ever, and I’m not just saying that because I was in it.
Holly’s Marriage and Philanthropy
Holly’s been married to former NFL star Rodney Peete for 27 years. What’s the secret to their enduring love?
We practice what we call “Same Page Love.” It’s all about taking the time to realign when life throws you off course. Another thing we do is the “20-Second Hug.” Either of us can request it anytime. You just hold each other for 20 seconds, no talking. Around the 15-second mark, something magical happens. Your pheromones kick in, your hearts sync up, and you soften. It’s not just for arguments—it’s great for stress too.
Holly and Rodney also founded the HollyRod Foundation. What inspired them to create it?
After my dad’s incredible career writing for shows like Sanford and Son and The Cosby Show, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in his 40s. I became his caregiver until he passed in 2002. When I met Rodney, we realized so many families were struggling with Parkinson’s and needed support. That’s how the foundation started. Later, when our son RJ was diagnosed with autism, we expanded our mission to include autism awareness and support.
How’s RJ doing now?
RJ’s thriving! Early on, doctors told us he’d never have meaningful employment or drive. Well, RJ just drove himself to work this morning! He’s a clubhouse attendant for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and they hired him knowing about his autism. This job has given him independence, purpose, and lifelong friendships. It’s been an incredible journey to watch him grow.
Holly’s Bucket List
What’s next for Holly? What’s on her bucket list?
Through the HollyRod Foundation, we built RJ’s Place, a compassionate care autism center in Los Angeles. My dream is to expand these centers to at least five or six cities. Serving more families in the autism and Parkinson’s communities is my ultimate goal. There’s still so much work to do, and I’m ready to dive in.
