“This is the kind of effort ESSENCE Magazine imagines for us!” could be the tagline for any TV show starring dynamic Black women living their best lives.
It’s also a line in the upcoming OWN romantic drama, Love Is___ and, of course, we cosign.
The bold new refreshing romantic drama series from Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil gives us nostalgic 90s vibes set in Los Angeles and follows Michele Weaver’s character Nuri as she falls in love with Yasir (Will Catlett).
From opposite worlds, the pair will have to overcome the peaks and valleys of their backgrounds to embark on a journey to follow their hearts and chase their dreams–together.
Seen through two lenses–the present day and a 20-year flashback–the series will cast a light on social issues of the past and align with the political landscape of the present all while highlighting the vibrancy of Black love and culture in all forms, building a family and balancing successful careers amongst it all.
Along with Weaver and Catlett, the all-star cast includes Loretta Devine, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Tim Reid, Michael King, and more.
Love Is__, premieres on OWN Tuesday, June 19 at 10 p.m.