New Series Forever Comes to Netflix
The new series Forever is set to hit Netflix on May 8. So far, it has been described as a modern take on Judy Blume’s groundbreaking 1975 novel.
Executive producer Mara Brock Akil, known for her work on Girlfriends and Being Mary Jane, brings her unique voice to the film.
“I’ve always credited Judy Blume as part of the seasoning of my voice as a writer. She was one of the first writers I read that dared to be honest about the human condition in young people and you can see traces of her writing style within my own. I’m honored to reimagine one of my favorite books, Forever,” Akil shared.
mood because FOREVER is only…
— nay (@chaoticblkgirl) April 28, 2025
TEN. DAYS. AWAY.
WHO’S EXCITED?!
FOREVER. MAY 8. ONLY ON @NETFLIX. pic.twitter.com/fpzeW53Kpm
A Love Story That Resonates Across Generations
The series centers on Keisha (Lovie Simone), a confident track star, and Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.), a nerd at heart disguised as an athlete. Their romance explores the awkward and exciting journey of being each other’s first loves. “All the questions we have to sort through – the first time you have sex, your first kiss, the first time you say ‘I love you’ – it resonated then, and it resonates now,” the EP explained.
Blume shared her excitement about the film, “I’m thrilled that Mara has chosen to tell this story through her own lens. It is gratifying to know that, 50 years after its release, the love story at the core of Forever is still resonating with audiences.”
A Cast That Brings the Story to Life
The chemistry between Simone and Cooper Jr. is present from the start. Blume mentioned when the two auditioned, she saw the world come together. The supporting cast includes Karen Pittman as Justin’s mother, Dawn, Wood Harris as his father, Eric, Xosha Roquemore as Keisha’s mother, Shelly, and Barry Shabaka Henley as Keisha’s grandfather, George.
Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of 2018 Los Angeles, the show uses the city as a metaphor for dreams and love. “What better metaphor for this love story than what LA represents, for not only me, but for a lot of people. You’re looking for a place to follow your dreams, and love is a part of that,” Akil mentioned.
Your first love can stay with you forever.
— Netflix (@netflix) January 30, 2025
Judy Blume’s iconic 1975 novel becomes the modern day romance of your dreams. Here’s your first look at Mara Brock Akil’s FOREVER. #NextOnNetflix pic.twitter.com/cEVmlZbEQ0
Forever is Akil’s first project under her overall deal with Netflix and is executive produced by a team including Judy Blume, Regina King, and others. Netflix’s Renate Radford stated, “Mara’s creative and authentic storytelling allows us to present a fresh take on an iconic coming-of-age love story. We look forward to bringing the series to a global audience.”
Forever hits Netflix on May 8.
