Because "Alias" starred Kelly Hu, many aspects had changed, such as the condensed plot. As a suspense series, filming just over ten episodes per season was sufficient - dragging it out only increased the plot holes until it became utterly nonsensical. The original "Alias" had ended abruptly because it constantly filled existing plot holes with even more complex ones, leading to yet larger gaps that eventually made further production impossible.
Part of the plot was altered and, along with Kelly's Asian appearance, some character designs were changed as well. Consequently, as Lin Xilei had mentioned, the production team was looking for either Chinese or Asian temporary actors, and a scout had discovered Liu Yufei in New York after asking her a few questions and then convinced her to join following her mother's encouragement.
