‘First Kill’ Showrunner, Felica D. Henderson, Was Inspired to Take on the Series Because of Her Goddaughter

V.E. Schwab’s short story, First Kill, has been turned into a series, and it hits in all the right ways. The show follows the story of a teenage vampire and the vampire hunter she falls in love with. Since its June 10 release, 93% of users have liked the show. Showrunner Felicia D. Henderson is credited with the rich storytelling that is part of its appeal. Henderson recently explained exactly what drew her to the Netflix original when she had more than enough on her plate.

What is ‘First Kill’ about?

First Kill is an original series, but other shows inspired the author of the original short story. Schwab told The New York Times that shows like Charmed, Supernatural, and Buffy, the Vampire Slayer, were great shows for their time, but there was still something missing from them. The famed author felt there was room for another vampire show that allowed queer characters to shine as main characters.

In the series, Juliette Fairmont was born into a powerful vampire family. Calliope Burns was born into a powerful family of vampire slayers. Both, although still teens, are ready to make their “first kills” and take their rightful seats within their families. Things get complicated when Cal and Julliette fall in love.

Felicia D. Henderson said she had a lot of work when ‘First Kill’ came across her desk

Henderson is no stranger to the entertainment space. First Kill is far from her first successful project. In fact, when First Kill came across her desk, she initially planned on passing on the project before even reading the pilot script. Henderson told Geek Girl Authority that when her manager called her about the project, she told them to pass on it because she already had too much on her plate.

Henderson recalled her manager telling her to just read the script before making a decision. She told the publication that she instantly knew why her manager was so persistent. The pilot was everything she loved about the creative process.

Felicia D. Henderson said her loved ones’ experiences inspired her

Henderson has spoken openly about what inspired her to work on First Kill. The famed writer and producer told The New York Times she was inspired by the ability to tell a story that would reach underrepresented groups. She said the show was the perfect opportunity to tell a rich story of Black girls. Henderson also noted that her goddaughter’s coming-out story inspired her.

According to the publication, Henerson’s goddaughter struggled with coming out as a teen and could have used a show like First Kill to guide her way. Henderson hopes the series will provide entertainment and inspire more queer young adults to embrace who they are, wherever they happen to be in their journey.