Known for being the “first kiss” in the very first season of ABC’s dating TV series, “The Bachelor.” Her journey led her to seek out her true passions, becoming an entrepreneur with her soap line – Fountain of Youth and a filmmaker with the release of her short film Heaven’s Revenge.
She’s now focusing on her businesses, love for film and continuous journey of health and wellness. She’s focused on fitness and can be spotted either outdoors hiking at Runyon Canyon or at Equinox gym on the treadmill or by the weights. She also helps support organizations such as PETA and the ASPCA, out of her love for animals.
Follow LaNease @laneaseadams
Hi LaNease, please tell us a little about you (i.e. where you grew up and what lead you to the entertainment industry)?
I grew up in Los Angeles, California – not too far from Hollywood. I was always intrigued with the excitement of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. There was an allure for me. However, although I began doing plays when I was in grade school, and studied theater all through my school years, I didn’t plan on becoming an actress. I was just doing it because I really enjoyed it. But once I became an adult and it was time to pick a career, that is when I decided to go all in. There was no other career that made me happier than acting.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Loyal, Kind, Optimistic.
Name one your strengths?
Empathy.
Who is your role model?
Janet Jackson.
Who has been the biggest influence on your life?
Probably my ex-boyfriend, Bill Maher, who has been a great friend for almost 20 years.
When you were a kid what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was really little I wanted to be an obstetrician.
What did you learn from your biggest failure? (if any)
I learned that no matter what, you can always try again. And nothing is a failure if you learn from it.
Best advice you have followed?
Do what you say you are going to do so that people can trust you, and you can trust yourself.
What is your own definition of happiness?
For me, it is less about where you go, and more about who you are with. My definition of happiness is being around someone that I love, whether it be a family member, friend, or lover.
How did you hear about auditions for ABC’s “The Bachelor”? Did you think it would become a TV phenomenon?
A friend of mine who was in casting told me about the auditions for “The Bachelor.” I had NO idea how much of a phenomenon it would be. Until of course the show began to air, and all of a sudden everywhere I went, people recognized me.
You were in the first season and known for the “first kiss.” Have you been a fan of the show after this?
Yes, we were Pioneers! Trailblazers! I can still remember it all like it was yesterday, especially the kiss. It was all so fantastic for a 23 year old me. I enjoyed my experience on the show, but afterwards I had trouble dealing with the instant fame, and also some racial backlash that I experienced from reading blogs online. So I actually could not watch the show for about 10 years, I think it was… Everything would bring up memories, some good and some painful. But once I was able to reconcile my entire experience, and heal the parts of me that needed to be healed, I could watch the show again, and I really really enjoy it. And I’m happy to be a part of #BachelorNation.
Now tell us about your short film “Heaven’s Revenge” and your web series “The Mis-Adventures of Katherine.” What inspired you to create these pieces?
I wanted to do a movie that allowed me to express many sides of my personality. The sexy side, the fun side, the vulnerable side, and the angry side. That was what we did with “Heaven’s Revenge.” My character got to experience all of these emotions in that film. It was such an exciting piece to bring to life!
In “The Mis-Adventures of Katherine!”, I wanted to use my voice to make people laugh. I love to laugh and I wanted to share that. If I wasn’t an actress, my other dream job would be a comedian. To just sit around and laugh would be great.
How did you come up with the idea for your soap line “Fountain of Youth?” Where we can buy it?
I am really into Health and Wellness. I study Western and Eastern methods of healing. When I began to learn the benefits of aromatherapy and minerals, I wanted to find a way to incorporate them into my everyday life. That is when I began to make the soap for myself… and I loved it so much, I thought that I should sell it. We have amazing organic soaps, in scents like lavender, lemon grass and eucalyptus. You can purchase online at www.fountainofyouthbath.com.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in your career?
I have learned that anything worth having is hard work. In my industry, you have to give 100%, there are no shortcuts. I’ve learned to give my full attention to things, whether that be in my business, or personal life.
What is the key to your success?
God and perseverance have been the keys to my success. I push myself as far as I can go. I fall, and get back up.
What’s next for LaNease Adams in 2020?
I’m currently writing more episodes of my web series, “The Mis-Adventures of Katherine!” and I’m looking for interesting tv and film projects to do.
Do you support any charities?
I love animals, and currently support the ASPCA and PETA through donations.
Can you describe a typical day in your life?
Quarantine has cramped my style a bit! I used to spend a lot of time socializing with friends, but right now I mainly get in some great exercise, and then try to read or write or create. I’m always working on something, in some form or fashion.
What’s your favorite quote?
“Only distance tests the strength of a horse, and only time reveals the heart of a man.”
Name 3 things you’ve learned during quarantine?
1. I’ve learned to be more self-reliant. When your social life goes from 100 to 0, you have to adjust and be a better friend to yourself.
2. Exercise is Essential Business! The quarantine can be a real mood buster, so getting some fresh air and exercise has kept my spirits much higher.
3. I’m a better cook than I thought! In the beginning of quarantine I cooked a lot to keep myself occupied. I’ve made some amazing dishes from scratch.
What is your workout routine these days?
I try to work out at least 5 days a week. With the gyms closed, I have moved my workouts to outdoor locations. And that can vary from taking a 1 hour hike, or jogging at the park and using the benches for leg lifts. Sometimes I’ll also throw on some ankle weights and wrist weights to step up the intensity.
What is your favorite healthy food?
My favorite healthy food is brussels sprouts. The chefs make them much better than my parents did when I was a kid!
And your favorite cheat food?
Wow.. there are so many savory cheat foods! But I would have to say a hot fudge sundae…throw in a brownie with walnuts and I’m in Heaven!
Which project is still on your bucket list?
I would love to do some television hosting. On a show like “The Real” or something like that so that I could have a direct line with the audience.
Five years from now you will be….
Married, and acting on a television show.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think Social Media is great. It can be a wonderful tool to learn about people and subject matters. It’s also a wonderful way to showcase your talent and connect with like-minded individuals.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok and I always use @laneaseadams.
Rapid Fireside Questions
Favorite Book: The Art of Worldly Wisdom
Sports Team: Lakers
Restaurant/Bar: The Palm
Drink: Glass of wine
Song: Why Georgia – by John Mayer
Travel destination: Hawaii
Movie: Pretty Woman
TV Show: The Orville
Photo Credit: Haldane Morris
