Netflix’s ‘Forever’ Reimagines Judy Blume’s Classic Teen Romance Through a Modern Black Family Lens

Judy Blume’s groundbreaking 1975 novel “Forever...” centers on a teenage girl’s first sexual experience, which, contrary to typical cautionary tales, does not ruin her life. However, she remains surrounded by warnings about unintended pregnancies, premature marriages, and postponed aspirations. The consequences weigh more heavily on her than on her more experienced boyfriend.

When showrunner Mara Brock Akil set out to adapt this young adult classic, she brought a fresh perspective shaped by her experience as a mother to Black sons. In discussions with Blume, she proposed a retelling that shifts the narrative viewpoint to the boyfriend, focusing on contemporary Black families.

While Katherine, the novel’s protagonist, appeared socially vulnerable in the original era, Brock Akil suggests that today, Black boys face some of the greatest challenges. She notes, “A modern Black family understands the dangers present in the world.”

Blume wrote “Forever...” in the wake of the birth control pill’s availability, responding to her daughter’s request for a story where a teenage girl could enjoy a sexual relationship without punishment—a narrative that was uncommon at the time. The novel candidly captures the intensity of first love and adolescent discovery, written in a frank style that captivated young readers and led to it becoming one of the most frequently challenged books in America well into the 21st century.

The Netflix adaptation, premiering Thursday, stars Lovie Simone (“Greenleaf”) and newcomer Michael Cooper Jr., reversing the original gender dynamics. Simone’s character, Keisha Clark, is confident and experienced, while Cooper Jr.’s Justin Edwards is awkward and deeply infatuated, seeking guidance. The series retains the original’s emotional purity—offering parents reassurance that it is not as gritty as other teen dramas—but also delves into complex themes of race and socioeconomic status.