Now many of ya’ll are already familiar with the work from Mara Brock Akil. She has given us amazing scripted content such as “Girlfriends,” “The Game,” and “Being Mary Jane.” Now she will be creating all-new original content for Netflix.
According to Deadline, the news of the deal comes just as “Girlfriends,” is set to premiere on the streaming service on September 11th, which also marks the show’s 20th anniversary.
Mara expressed her excitement to be working with the streaming service and said, “It is a dream to partner with the force of Netflix, for we have the same goals—telling human stories for a global audience. I’m excited to have a home that allows me the creative freedom and support to do what I do best– paint portraits and murals of women, Black people, and anyone else whose story is missing from this golden age of television. Representation matters and so does who you build with– I can’t wait to work closely with Channing Dungey and her team to launch some great stories.”
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“Girlfriends,” premiered in 2000 before ending in 2008. Before the show officially wrapped up, she introduced the show’s spinoff “The Game,” which is already streaming on Netflix. Mara also brought viewers the story of Mary Jane Paul, which was portrayed by Gabrielle Union in the hit BET series “Being Mary Jane.”
Mara is joining the likes of many other creatives that have signed deals with Netflix to create original content, including Shonda Rhimes and Kenya Barris.
Channing Dungey, the Vice President of Original Series at Netflix added, “We are thrilled to welcome Mara Brock Akil to Netflix. Her signature storytelling, authentic perspective, and captivating characters have long entertained audiences and proven to be relevant, timely, and endlessly engaging. We look forward to bringing her distinct voice, vision and passion to our global members.”
The CW series “Black Lightning,” which was created by Mara’s husband Salim Akil, also appears on the streaming service as well.
Congrats to Mara Brock Akil on her new deal.
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TSR STAFF: Jade Ashley @Jade_Ashley94
