Kim Kardashian says All's Fair will embrace comedy in second series

Kim Kardashian says All's Fair is embracing comedy for its second series after the legal drama drew harsh reviews but attracted audiences curious about the reaction. Speaking to the BBC, the media personality and businesswoman said the response had helped shape the direction of the show, which was intended to establish her as a leading actor.

Created by Ryan Murphy, whose other shows include American Horror Story and Glee, All's Fair follows a group of divorce lawyers played by Kardashian, Glenn Close, Sarah Paulson, Naomi Watts and Niecy Nash-Betts. It became Hulu's most-watched scripted series debut in three years and was immediately renewed. Critics attacked the acting, particularly Kardashian's performance, while viewers found entertainment in its extravagant clothes and sharp dialogue.

Kardashian, 46, said the team had initially seen the programme as a legal drama addressing serious subjects. Audience enthusiasm for its humour has since influenced the writing. “We're a full comedy now,” she told the BBC, explaining that writers attentive to popular culture could respond to how viewers received the first series. Watts, who produces the show alongside Kardashian, said the next instalment would place greater emphasis on fashion, drama and heightened reality.

Watts also praised Kardashian's development as an actor, describing her improvisation during the second series as impressive. Kardashian said she approaches criticism by continuing to work, trying harder and considering different approaches. After more than 20 years in public life, she said she had learned to brush off attempts to undermine her and remained interested in taking on difficult challenges because she wanted to learn.

That determination also extends to her ambition to qualify as a lawyer. While promoting the first series last year, Kardashian was awaiting the outcome of an exam after six years of study through an apprenticeship route that did not require a university degree. She learned shortly after the series aired that she had failed, but told the BBC she intended to take the exam again.

Following her admission that she had used artificial intelligence for legal advice, Kardashian said she would share less about her studies until she qualified. She rejected suggestions that she had abandoned the effort and said she would announce her success once she passed. She also welcomed the show's portrayal of professionally successful women who enjoy fashion and glamour, a combination she said reflected many women she knew.