Keiko Agena Confesses to Feeling 'Insecurities' During Filming of "Gilmore Girls": 'Felt Like Stakes Were Very High'

Keiko Agena, known for her role as Lane Kim in over 100 episodes of Gilmore Girls from 2000 to 2007, recently opened up about the pressures she faced at the start of the show and how it shaped her career.

Agena appeared on the premiere episode of the podcast Generation Gilmore Girls, produced by Connecticut Public and hosted by Chloe Wynne. The episode revisits the origins of the iconic series and explores why it continues to resonate with audiences even 25 years later.

In conversation with fan Sarah Lampert, showrunner and creator of Netflixs Ginny & Georgia, Agena shared her early experiences on set. She admitted that initially, she struggled with unfamiliar scripts and the intensity of the work environment. I had never read a script like that, she recalled. It was funny and moving at the same time. I thought, I hope this gets made.

Recalling the very first day of filming, Agena described a scene with Alexis Bledel, where they walked and talked past Dean. We did a few takes and got notes to go a little faster. We were surprised, but looking back, it wasnt anywhere near the speed the show became known for, she said.

Agena also noted that fan recognition was slower during the shows original run compared to its later success in syndication and streaming. Nevertheless, she felt a strong sense of responsibility and excitement for the opportunity. This was the real deal, the big break, she said. Whatever insecurities I hadnt faced before, they surfaced then. I was 26 and even hiding my age, which added to the pressure.

Today, Agena looks back on Gilmore Girls with gratitude. She described the show as the gift that keeps on giving and expressed appreciation to creator Amy Sherman-Palladino for casting her. Agena emphasized how the role opened doors for future opportunities and allowed her to connect with fans on a meaningful level. All of the experiences and blessings Ive received from being part of this show are precious to me, she said.

Generation Gilmore Girls is currently available, with new episodes released on December 9 and 16. The podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major platforms.

Author: Riley Thompson