Drea Kelly Defends Keeping Last Name

Drea Kelly Defends Keeping R. Kelly’s Last Name: “It’s About What I Do with It”

Drea Kelly, the ex-wife of disgraced R&B singer R. Kelly, is speaking out about her decision to retain her former husband’s last name. In a recent interview, she made it clear that the public’s fascination with why she chose to keep the “Kelly” surname misses the point. According to Drea, it’s not about the name itself—it’s about how she uses it to further important causes.

In a bold statement, Drea explained, “At the end of the day, people shouldn’t be worried about why I kept the last name. They should be worried about what I do with the last name.” She went on to highlight how the surname “Kelly” has given her a platform to raise awareness about issues such as domestic violence. Drea emphasized that the name has opened doors for her to speak on major platforms, including CNN, where she has discussed abuse and advocated for change. The last name has also allowed her to visit military bases, sharing her story and spreading messages of healing and empowerment.

Drea’s message to critics is clear: her work matters more than the name she carries. She added, “My name means more to you than it does to me. You’re not trying to be an advocate, you’re being nosey. Why? Because my last name is Kelly.”

For Drea, her mission is larger than the association with her ex-husband’s controversial past. She is determined to use her platform to advocate for those who have experienced abuse, demonstrating that a name does not define a person’s purpose or value.

While many might continue to scrutinize her decision, Drea Kelly is standing firm, using her past to fuel a powerful message of advocacy and resilience. Whether people agree with her choice or not, one thing is certain—Drea is making sure that her work speaks for itself.

Source: The Shade Room