by April Richelle
As someone who grew up loving Judy Blume’s fearless storytelling and later became a fan of Mara Brock Akil’s bold, authentic voice in television, Netflix’s Forever felt like a full-circle moment and it doesn’t disappoint.
Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. photo credit: unknown
Based on Blume’s groundbreaking 1975 novel, Forever explores the emotional rollercoaster of first love, identity, and coming-of-age with a modern lens starring Lovie Simone (Keisha) and Michael Cooper Jr (Justin). Mara masterfully reimagines the classic, preserving its raw honesty while layering it with the cultural richness, depth, and nuance she’s known for. The casting is strong, the writing heartfelt, and the direction feels current but still deeply rooted in Blume’s spirit.
What makes this series truly special is how it honors young Black love, something rarely portrayed with such tenderness and complexity. It doesn’t shy away from the awkward, the intense, or the intimate, and instead embraces the messiness of growing up with honesty and empathy.
And let’s talk about the parenting. Both Keisha’s mom (played by Xosha Roquemore) and Justin’s parents (played by Karen Pittman and Wood Harris) are portrayed with so much care and intention. Keisha’s mother is present, loving, and emotionally attuned, balancing warmth and guidance with room for her daughter to figure things out. Meanwhile, Justin’s parents bring a beautiful sense of structure, compassion, and cultural grounding. The layered portrayals highlight the emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and strength it takes to parent teens in today’s world, especially through the lens of Black family life. It’s a refreshing and powerful reminder that great parenting is just as impactful to a coming-of-age story as the love itself.
Forever isn’t just a teen drama; it’s a coming-of-age anthem for anyone who’s ever navigated the thrill and confusion of love for the first time. It’s vulnerable, beautiful, and refreshingly real.
Judy and Mara together? Pure magic.
Oh, and the soundtrack is chef’s kiss.
Can’t wait for season two!
