During her conversation with Nerds of Color, Tesfai explained that Kelly's story is about watching her come up as much as it is about Tesfai growing into her own power as a woman.
When the fans see this arc, it isn't just watching Kelly step into her power. It's watching me, Azie, as a person, stepping into my power as a Black woman. And so it means a lot to me.
Tesfai expressed joy at playing the character she calls her "role model," noting that she aspired to exist and be like Kelly.
She revealed how much she could relate to Kelly as she believes they both lead with their heart and really want to put good into the world and have compassion for others.
"I think of Kelly as me on my very best day," she added.
