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💡 TLDR
No but seriously, Mara Brock Akil’s new Netflix series Forever is everything. The reimagined version of Judy Blume’s 1975 coming-of-age novel is set in 2018 LA, following Keisha Clark (Lovie Simone), …
No but seriously, Mara Brock Akil’s new Netflix series Forever is everything. The reimagined version of Judy Blume’s 1975 coming-of-age novel is set in 2018 LA, following Keisha Clark (Lovie Simone), a track star with dreams of Howard, and Justin Edwards (Michael Cooper Jr.), a basketball player with a brain. Their love story isn’t just about kissing—it’s about navigating family expectations, self-discovery, and the messy, beautiful chaos of growing up Black. Mara opened up about how this project came to life, why she’s obsessed with giving Black boys space to be vulnerable, and why turning white characters black isn’t her priority.
The show’s magic lies in its authenticity. Mara explained how casting Regina King as director was a no-brainer—she’s the queen of nuanced storytelling, and her presence brought depth to every scene. When Lovie and Michael first shared the screen, it was magic. “They changed the molecules in the room,” Mara said. “That’s chemistry.” The cast’s real-life connection made the characters feel like real teens, not just actors playing roles. And let’s talk about the tiny details: Black prom, the way kids code-switch between school and home, the music they listen to in the car. These aren’t just plot points—they’re lifelines.
Mara’s biggest takeaway? Black boys are the most vulnerable during adolescence. “They’re often seen as threats before they even open their mouths,” she said. “Justin’s smile, the way he hesitates before saying something—he’s a mirror for all the awkward, beautiful messiness of being a Black teen.” The show isn’t just about love; it’s about giving boys permission to be soft, to change their minds, to want love as fiercely as girls do. “I want to see more men be vulnerable,” she said. “It’s just as precious.”
The show’s also a love letter to Black culture. From the way families gather for Champagne Toasts to the way kids code-switch between their neighborhoods and school, Forever feels like a hug from your favorite auntie. Mara’s kids were her muse—she drew from their language, their confidence, their swag. “I wanted to show the realness of our kids’ rites of passage,” she said. “Black prom isn’t just a party—it’s a celebration of survival.”
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So, have you seen Forever yet? Or what’s your take on Black masculinity in media? Drop it below—let’s keep the convo going.
❓ People Also Ask
Did Mara Brock Akil change any characters in “Forever”?
No, she didn’t alter characters’ races. She focused on storytelling and authenticity, not changing skin tones for diversity.
Why does Mara Brock Akil want more vulnerable men in media?
She believes men should be allowed to show vulnerability, challenging stereotypes and promoting emotional honesty in storytelling.
💬 What do you think? Let us know in the comments! 👇