The Transformation Of Kelly Mi Li From Bling Empire
Kelly Mi Li became a new "it" girl in Hollywood after being introduced on the premiere cast of Netflix's Bling Empire. Her romance with actor Andrew Gray and "self-made" millionaire career as a serial entrepreneur helped set her apart from the rest of the cast. Born in Kunming, China, Kelly relocated to Chicago during her childhood after her mother got a job at the University of Illinois, SCMP reported. She embarked on a career in business early-on, having worked in life insurance at age 18 before transitioning into real estate after moving from New York City to Los Angeles.
Since then, she has grown her empire to include a film production company, Organic Media Group, and she works as a talent manager with the East West Artists where she helped merge Asian talent with the United States. She also raked in the big bucks by investing in some major tech startups, like Change.org. "I can't go to lunch five days a week with them," Kelly told Bustle in January 2021. "And if a social event falls on a weekday, "I'm like, 'I'm sorry, I have to work.'" As the CEO of multiple thriving businesses and not one who inherited her wealth like others on the show, Kelly prides herself in how "hard" she works. "Success didn't come easy; being an entrepreneur is not a nine to five," she said. "You're on it 24/7."
So how has Kelly Mi Li changed since Bling Empire was filmed in 2019? Let's take a look.
How Kelly Mi Li maintains a 'balanced lifestyle'
Kelly Mi Li is only more committed to her entrepreneur lifestyle after starring in Bling Empire. Amid the heightened media attention she received from being cast on the show, Kelly shared a little "self care" post in January 2021. "Since the premiere of #BlingEmpire, life has been a bit more hectic with work and interviews," she shared in a lengthy Instagram caption. "I always remind myself to take breaks and spend quality time with loved ones. I've learned that slowing down and maintaining a balanced lifestyle is so important for our health and wellbeing!"
In Kelly Mi Li's Instagram bio, she describes herself as an "Entrepreneur, Producer, and Travel Junkie." Her production credits include 2020's Echo Boomers starring Patrick Schwarzenegger, per IMDb. She promoted the film's trailer in an October 2020 Instagram post. "Here it is! Hope you guys enjoy the trailer," she told her followers of the true story turned movie.
As a self proclaimed "travel junkie" and social media influencer with over 1 million followers, Kelly is often invited to stay at luxury resorts and spas in exchange for promo. In a November 2019 photo slide, she shared her experience at Laguna Beach's Pathway to Zen wellness retreat. "When @visitlaguna invited me to their new #PathwayToZen, you bet I confirmed immediately with excitement," she shared in a promotional post. "There's nothing like a weekend getaway with the girls," she added.
It looks like Kelly is well prepared for the new reality star lifestyle she has embarked on. As for Andrew, they're working things out.