Netflix has announced that they have put in a series order for Forever based on Judy Blume’s groundbreaking 1975 novel. This is the first series out of the deal Mara Brock Akil has with the streaming service. So, if you’re unfamiliar with executive producer Mara Brock Akil, let me help you. She is the woman who brought us the TV shows—Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane, as well as The Game.

WHAT IS FOREVER?

Judy Blume is a well-known author to children and adults alike. You may recognize the titles of the stories Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, and Blubber. Not to mention, Just as Long as We’re Together, as well as the five-book series about the irrepressible Fudge, beginning with Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. Her adult novels Wifey, Smart Women, and Summer Sisters, as well as her most recent In the Unlikely Event, are all New York Times bestsellers.

Inspired by her daughter, Blume wrote her groundbreaking novel, Forever, in 1975. So, after reading a slew of YA books about young love she asked her mother to write a story about “two nice kids who have sex without either of them having to die“. Forever tells the story of Katherine’s and Michael’s love as a joyous one. Their story is filled with all the “wonder of the first time”. The two meet on New Year’s Eve and become completely involved with each other. It’s a magical affair—until they’re separated that summer.

Now, the book is being reimagined by executive producer Mara Brock Akil for a new generation! The new Forever series on Netflix will be an epic love story of two Black teens who are exploring romance and their identities through the awkward journey of being each other’s firsts. 

MARA BROCK AKIL AND NETFLIX’S THOUGHTS ON BRINGING JULY BLUME’S FOREVER TO LIFE

“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.  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.” 

Renate Radford, Vice President, Overall Deals,  Netflix: “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.”

There is no other information about Forever at this time. So, stay tuned to That Hashtag Show for more as the story develops.

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