Farewell to Yellowstone: Lilli Kay and Her Impactful Roles
As a devoted follower of Yellowstone, the conclusion of the series in 2024 left me feeling despondent, especially regarding the departure of the Dutton family. A particular highlight for me was witnessing Lilli Kay’s remarkable portrayal of Clara Brewer, John Dutton’s steadfast assistant during his tenure as Governor of Montana in season 5. Clara was not only portrayed as intelligent and resilient but also played a pivotal role in enhancing queer representation within the series, becoming the first character to engage in an LGBTQ+ kiss in Yellowstone‘s history.
Lilli’s father, Steven Kay, notably served as a director and producer for the show. Fortunately, Clara is just one facet of Lilli’s talent. The actress is set to showcase her skills in the highly anticipated Apple TV+ series Stick, featuring Owen Wilson as a mentor to a young golf prodigy. Scheduled for release on June 4, 2025, fans eager for more from Lilli can enjoy her extensive filmography in the interim, which includes a variety of noteworthy performances.
Lilli Kay’s Most Notable Roles
| Movie/TV Show | Role | Number of Episodes |
|---|---|---|
| Paterno (2018) | Dori | |
| Madam Secretary (2019) | Ruby Bragg | 1 |
| Chambers (2019) | Penelope Fowler | 10 |
| August At Twenty-Two (2022) | Emily Walker | |
| Your Honor (2020-2023) | Fia Baxter | 20 |
| Rustin (2023) | Rachelle | |
| The Luckiest Man In America (2024) | Unnamed Role | |
| Yellowstone (2022-2024) | Clara Brewer | 8 |
| For Worse (2025) | Tina |
Portrayal of Penelope Fowler in Chambers (2019)
A Gripping Tale of Obsession
In the Netflix thriller Chambers, Lilli Kay embodies Penelope Fowler, a high school student entangled in a web of intrigue following her classmate Sasha’s heart transplant. After receiving a new heart, Sasha begins experiencing vivid visions linked to the previous heart’s owner, Becky. Penelope, who initially presents herself as a friend of Becky’s, harbors a disturbing obsession. As Sasha becomes increasingly consumed by the spirit of Becky, Penelope shifts her fixation onto Sasha, leading to a chilling narrative filled with suspense. Kay’s portrayal is masterfully nuanced, showcasing her range as an actress, although the series was unfortunately canceled after one season despite strong performances from a stellar cast.
Emily Walker in August At Twenty-Two (2022)
Making a Mark in Feature Films
Watch August At Twenty-Two Trailer
In the indie drama August At Twenty-Two, Lilli Kay takes on the role of Emily, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions. The film revolves around a young actor, Cal, who rekindles feelings for her past love, Jacob, only to encounter Emily, Jacob’s current girlfriend. As Cal attempts to win back Jacob, a surprising chemistry develops between her and Emily, adding depth to the storyline. This film represents both a significant milestone for Kay and an outstanding feature debut for director Sophia Castuera, emphasizing LGBTQ+ representation and highlighting Kay’s potential for more prominent roles in cinema.
Fia Baxter in Your Honor (2020-2023)
A Web of Deception and Tragedy
Your Honor is a riveting legal drama featuring Bryan Cranston as a judge caught in a moral quagmire after his son is implicated in a crime. Lilli Kay portrays Fia Baxter, the sister of a victim, who unwittingly becomes romantically involved with the perpetrator, Adam. The story intensifies when Fia discovers her complex connection to the case, leading to heart-wrenching decisions about her future. As the narrative unfolds, Kay adeptly navigates the emotional turmoil faced by her character, making it a standout performance throughout the series’ two seasons.
Other Notable Roles of Lilli Kay
Supporting Characters in Captivating True Stories
Despite being in the industry for less than ten years, Lilli Kay has built an impressive resume. Starting her career with the television film Paterno in 2018, she starred alongside legends like Al Pacino, depicting the true story of coach Joe Paterno’s controversial legacy. Following this, she guest-starred in Madam Secretary, further solidifying her foundation in television. Her role in the biopic Rustin, which addresses pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement, showcases Kay’s versatility as she plays Rachelle Horowitz, a character integral to the narrative of Bayard Rustin.
Continuing the trend of true stories, Kay features in the upcoming film The Luckiest Man In America, which narrates a captivating yet absurd tale of game show fame. Additionally, with her recent supporting role in the romantic comedy For Worse, premiered at SXSW 2025, her career is poised for even greater heights. Anticipation builds for Lilli’s upcoming performance in Apple TV+’s Stick, which promises to add another impressive chapter to her evolving career.