She’s bringing a well-loved story to a new generation!
Few narratives resonate more profoundly than the timeless saga of first love—capturing the essence of passion, butterflies, and the inevitable heartbreak. Now, Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. are set to grace the screen in Mara Brock Akil’s new Netflix series, Forever, Netflix announced. This reimagining of Judy Blume’s iconic 1975 novel promises an epic love story that transcends time, exploring the journey of two Black teens navigating romance and self-discovery as they step into the uncharted territory of being each other’s firsts.
Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. will star in Mara Brock Akil's new series, Forever. A reimagining of the groundbreaking 1975 Judy Blume novel.
An epic love story of two Black teens exploring romance and their identities through the awkward journey of being each other’s… pic.twitter.com/XCHXV03mLo— Netflix (@netflix) February 15, 2024advertisement
Mara Brock Akil, a master in crafting narratives of Black love and growth through her creations like Girlfriends and Being Mary Jane, promises to capture the essence of first love and the enduring impact it holds. Like the original novel, Forever digs deep into the idea that your first love remains etched in your heart forever, a sentiment that resonates universally.
Simone, known for her roles in Social Distance and Greenleaf, steps into the shoes of Keisha Clark—a young, confident, smart, and fiery track star with a crystal-clear vision for life beyond high school. Cooper Jr., known for his performance in On the Come Up, portrays Justin Edwards—a heartful nerd disguised in an athlete’s body, fueled by dreams of D1 basketball and a desire to surpass his accomplished parents.
Actress and director Regina King joins the project as an executive producer and takes the directorial reins for the first episode. King, recognized for her powerful work in films like One Night in Miami and A Man in Full, adds her touch to elevate this exciting coming-of-age narrative.
While a release date has not yet been announced, we’re excited for this first project under Akil’s deal with Netflix.
Cover photo: Mara Brock-Akil Reimagines Judy Blume Classic for Netflix / Credit: Netflix