Taylor Polidore Williams recently stirred up conversation by revealing previously unknown details about her role as Kimmie in the popular Netflix drama Beauty in Black. While the show’s audience may have seen Kimmie as a character trying to overcome her challenges, Williams explained that her character’s true nature isn’t quite as peaceful or gentle as many might think. Behind Kimmie’s glamorous exterior and stunning costumes lies a far more ruthless side, one that surfaces as the series progresses. This side of her is slowly beginning to intimidate anyone who dares to cross her path.

In an interview with Blavity’s Shadow and Act, Williams reflected on how her character has evolved. While some fans might believe that Kimmie is finally seeing a positive turn in her life, the actress suggests otherwise. “She’s not really a peaceful person,” Williams explained. She clarified that although the character may appear to be shifting towards peace, Kimmie never truly feels at ease. Williams mentioned that even though, as an actress, she might think her character is on the path to betterment, Kimmie’s internal conflict keeps her on edge, making her unable to trust the changes happening around her.

Williams also noted the quick pace of Kimmie’s journey. The events in the series, despite seeming long to viewers, unfold within a compressed timeline, often spanning only a few days. “Even though it feels like we’ve been with her and this story for so long, all this has taken place in like a week, kind of less than a week’s time,” Williams shared. She emphasized that while the audience is watching Kimmie’s struggle unfold, the character herself is processing everything in real time. This constant stress and lack of trust add layers to her character, making it difficult for Kimmie to fully embrace any positive changes or relief.

The complexity of Kimmie’s character is also showcased in her relationship with Horace, another key character in the show. Williams acknowledged that while Kimmie may be starting to open up and trust Horace, she still remains deeply skeptical. “The biggest factor is Horace, and I think that he’s working to have her trust him,” she said. However, the actor also added that Kimmie’s journey isn’t just about receiving trust; it’s about believing that she deserves a moment of peace, something that has eluded her for much of the series.

In contrast, Williams, the actress, described herself as someone who tends to trust others easily. She admitted that she might be overly trusting and believes in the goodness of people. However, playing Kimmie has taught her a valuable lesson. “From her, I’ve learned not everybody has the best intentions for stuff,” she remarked. Williams explained that Kimmie’s experiences have helped her realize the importance of pausing to assess people’s motives, instead of blindly trusting everyone.

Outside of her acting career, Williams is deeply committed to advocating for foster youth. She has been a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for youth in foster care for over six years, a cause that has been close to her heart since childhood. Growing up with a grandmother who was a foster parent, Williams has always been aware of the struggles faced by children in the foster care system. “I personally feel like it’s just a civic duty to protect young people, children, and particularly those in difficult situations, like being in foster care,” she shared.

Williams expressed her belief that while young people in foster care are incredibly resilient, they still need extra support to thrive in the world. Her advocacy work, through her Shelter Rock Foundation, continues to raise awareness about issues affecting youth in foster care and encourages others to become involved in making a difference. For Williams, her role as a CASA has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of her life, alongside her acting career.

In addition to her work on Beauty in Black, Williams has also made waves in her career by landing a role in the fourth season of Hulu’s Reasonable Doubt. Having auditioned multiple times for previous seasons, she was thrilled when she was finally cast in the upcoming season. “As an actor, I’m constantly thinking, what’s next?” she admitted, acknowledging her desire to constantly move forward in her career. Williams expressed excitement about working with a creative team she greatly admires, especially the opportunity to work with a woman-led team, something that has always been a significant goal for her.

With her role in Reasonable Doubt and her ongoing advocacy for foster youth, Williams is balancing her growing career with her passion for social causes. As Beauty in Black continues to captivate audiences, her portrayal of Kimmie remains a testament to the complexity of her character. While Kimmie may be learning to trust and accept help, Williams is fully aware that the character’s journey is far from smooth, and the path to peace may remain elusive for a long time.

For now, Beauty in Black fans can enjoy the second season’s latest installment, which is currently streaming on Netflix, while eagerly anticipating the third and final season.