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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Lifestyle
Dominique Hines

Netflix’s Forever: Release date, cast and all you need to know about Spring's most anticipated show

Netflix's Forever, an adaptation of Judy Blume's 1975 novel of the same name - (Elizabeth Morris/Netflix)

If you’ve been searching for your next binge-worthy rom-com -search no more.

Netflix’s Forever, a fresh adaptation of Judy Blume’s beloved 1975 novel, is here to steal your heart.

With a star-studded cast, a powerhouse creative team, and a story that puts the love between two black teens front and centre, this is one show you won’t want to miss.

Here’s everything we know so far about Forever, from its release date to the first-look photos and trailer.

What is Forever about?

Netflix’s Forever reimagines Judy Blume’s groundbreaking novel for a new generation.

Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. in the roles of Keisha Clark and Justin Edwards (Elizabeth Morris/Netflix)

Set in 2018 Los Angeles, the series follows two Black teens, Keisha Clark and Justin Edwards, as they navigate the highs and lows of first love, identity, and growing up.

Executive producer and showrunner Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends, Moesha) is at the helm, with Oscar winner Regina King directing the first episode.

Brock Akil describes the show as an exploration of “the idea of your first love being with you forever,” blending the epic and intimate moments of young love.

“I’ve always credited Judy Blume as part of the seasoning of my voice as a writer,” Brock Akil told Tudum. “She was one of the first writers I read that dared to be honest about the human condition in young people.”

When is Forever released?

Mark your calendars: Forever will premiere on May 8, 2025. There’s a batch of first-look photos that tease the show’s heartfelt and dramatic moments.

Who’s in the cast?

Forever will star Lovie Simone as lead Keisha (Elizabeth Morris/Netflix)

The series stars Lovie Simone (Greenleaf, The Craft: Legacy) as Keisha Clark, a confident track star with big dreams, and Michael Cooper Jr. (The Wonder Years) as Justin Edwards, a nerdy athlete with ambitions of playing D1 basketball.

The supporting cast is just as impressive:

Karen Pittman (The Morning Show) as Justin’s strict but loving mother, Dawn. Wood Harris (The Wire) as Justin’s restaurateur father, Eric. Xosha Roquemore (The Mindy Project) as Keisha’s mother, Shelly.

Barry Shabaka Henley (The Terminal) as Keisha’s grandfather, George. E’myri Crutchfield (Tiny Pretty Things) as Tammy, Keisha’s track team rival.

Rounding out the cast are Paigion Walker as Keisha’s older cousin Tiffany, Ali Gallo as Keisha’s best friend Chloe, and Niles Fitch as Justin’s best friend Darius.

Is there a trailer?

Yes! Netflix dropped the first trailer giving fans a glimpse of Keisha and Justin’s journey from childhood friends to high school sweethearts.

The teaser promises a mix of heartwarming moments and emotional drama, set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles.

First-look photos

Netflix released a series of first-look photos on March 5, 2025, offering a sneak peek at the show’s family dynamics and romantic tension.

From tender hand-holding scenes to a mysterious shot of Justin and his parents next to a packed bag, the photos hint at the emotional rollercoaster ahead.

Why should you watch?

There are so few shows about black romance with authentic storytelling, and a stellar creative team, Forever is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most anticipated releases of 2025.

Whether you’re a fan of Judy Blume’s original novel or just love a good coming-of-age romance, this is one show that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, grab your popcorn and get ready to fall in love all over again when Forever hits Netflix on May 8, 2025.

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