The fictional drama is one of the four series Akil is set to produce for the streamer
Mara Brock Akil, the screenwriter behind hit shows like “Girlfriends,” “Being Mary Jane” and “The Game,” has signed on as showrunner and executive producer for a new Netflix series based on the novel “Forever” by author Judy Blume. Netflix announced the news on Thursday in a press release obtained by TheWrap.
The drama series is set to be a modern reimagining of Blume’s 1975 novel “Forever,” which tells the story of two Black teenagers who are navigating a romantic relationship that is centered around being one another’s first intimate partners.
“Judy Blume’s ability to capture the real emotions we experience during the various rites of passage of our youth influenced my life choices and writing voice. I’m honored to reimagine one of my favorite books, ‘Forever,’” said Akil. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity of a lifetime to partner with a childhood icon and bring this story to my Netflix home, where the idea of your first love being with you Forever is shared with the world through the lens of Black love.”
The show is the first of four series Akil is slated to produce for the streaming platform as part of her overall deal. Judy Blume, Susie Fitzgerald and Erika Harrison were also named as executive producers.
“We are excited to partner with Mara Brock Akil and Story27 on our first series, ‘Forever.’ 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,” said Renate Radford, Vice President of Overall Deals at Netflix
Back in 2021, Netflix’s platform Strong Black Lead, which works to highlight and celebrate films and television shows made by Black creatives, shared news that Akil launched her new production company story27, mentioning that “Forever” would be produced under the house.
