<P> Kelly appears prominently in a majority of the shows which compose the Beverly Hills, 90210 franchise . In addition to her role in launching the spin - off Melrose Place, Garth was the first performer from the original show to be cast in the third spin - off, 90210 . Having appeared in the most series premieres, as well as the most episodes (313) of any figure throughout the continuity, she is the de facto central character of the Beverly Hills, 90210 franchise . </P> <P> Garth's portrayal has earned recognition from critics and co-stars . In a 1995 article on the actress, TV Guide's Mary Murphy stated that, "Her signature role--the sensitive, seductive, and tortured Kelly Taylor--tapped into the very essence of teenage angst and brought her a huge cult following ." Actors Jason Priestley, Grant Show, and Sara Foster have expressed admiration for Garth's work . In a 2009 article, Nellie Andreeva of The Hollywood Reporter called the character of Kelly "organic to 90210's setting ." </P> <P> Throughout the course of the first series, Kelly became one of the show's most developed characters . When introduced in 1990, she was presented as, on the surface, a stereotypical spoiled type who placed high value on posh appearances and material possessions . However, the character would become increasingly layered as the series progressed . </P> <P> The reasons for Kelly's behavior first started to reveal themselves in episode 7, "Perfect Mom", when Kelly was forced to confront her mother's drug addiction and alcoholism . Several of her friends, particularly the Walsh family and Andrea Zuckerman, first came to appreciate Kelly's difficulties in life when they saw her handle this problem . During episode 13, "Slumber Party," Kelly revealed that she was taken advantage of by a senior during her freshmen year in high school, which had led to a promiscuous lifestyle and reputation which deeply hurt her self - esteem . The others then began to realize that Kelly had been through more difficulties than they were aware of, and later, she and Andrea would become close friends . When Andrea was pregnant and was contemplating an abortion in season 4, Kelly was one of the primary people she reached out to . </P>

Who played kelly taylor's dad on 90210