Taylor Polidore Williams: Beyond ‘Beauty in Black’

You might know her as Kimmie from Netflix’s hit drama “Beauty in Black,” but actress Taylor Polidore Williams is so much more than her on-screen persona. While fans often approach her recognizing her role as the stripper-turned-boss, Williams’ real life is a rich tapestry of passion, purpose, and a deep connection to her roots.

From Shy Beginnings to the Spotlight

Growing up in Katy, Texas, Taylor was a shy child. It was this shyness that actually led her to discover her love for acting. “Theater and performing… made me not so shy,” she shared in a recent interview. By high school, she was deeply involved in theater and already auditioning for commercials, TV, and film, knowing from a young age that acting was her calling.

Her childhood, unlike Kimmie’s, was “magical,” filled with a large, close-knit Creole family and the support of both her parents and a younger brother. This loving environment provided a strong foundation for her future endeavors.

The Power of HBCUs and Cultural Connection

Taylor’s journey also includes a significant chapter at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Despite growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood, she always felt a strong connection to her Black identity. “I have always loved being Black, and I always knew the beauty, the power, the struggle, in the differences,” she explained.

This deep appreciation led her to make the intentional decision to attend Clark Atlanta University (CAU). As the first in her family to attend an HBCU, she embraced the university’s motto, “find a way or make a way,” a philosophy that has guided her through life and career. CAU’s vibrant film and television scene also played a role in her choice.

Resilience and Protection: Parallels with Kimmie

While Taylor acknowledges she and her “Beauty in Black” character, Kimmie, are quite different, she sees a strong parallel in their resilience. “I feel like Kimmie and I are very different… but I think her resiliency… I am resilient in that way,” she shared, crediting her CAU experience. If she wants something, she’s determined to achieve it.

Another trait that resonates deeply is Kimmie’s protective nature. Taylor is a fierce advocate, particularly for young people and children’s rights. She serves as a court-appointed advocate for youth in foster care, taking her role very seriously. “It’s easier for me to fight for others than to fight for myself,” she admitted.

Founding The Shelter Rock Foundation

Inspired by her grandmother’s experience as a foster parent, Taylor became acutely aware of the gaps within the foster care system. This led her to pursue training as a court-appointed advocate, ensuring children don’t fall through the cracks. Her hands-on approach has been incredibly rewarding, prompting her to start her own nonprofit.

Named after the street she grew up on, The Shelter Rock Foundation aims to provide children with safe spaces and the tools they need to thrive creatively and become who they aspire to be. Taylor hopes to expand this work as her career grows, creating and funding opportunities for young people, especially those in foster care.

A Promising Future

Taylor describes her current season of life as “too good to be true,” balancing her burgeoning acting career with her recent marriage and her impactful advocacy work. While she admits to a subconscious “when is the other shoe gonna drop?” feeling, the future looks bright.

Fans can look forward to the second half of “Beauty in Black” season 2, where Kimmie’s storyline is teased as “promising, dangerous, and unexpected.” In the meantime, you can catch “Beauty in Black” on Netflix and follow Taylor Polidore Williams on social media @taylorpolidore.