Book to Screen
Judy Blume’s ‘Forever’: Everything We Know About Netflix’s New Romance Adaptation
Since the ’70s, Judy Blume has explored the wonderful and, at times, scary world of teenagers. The prolific young adult writer knows how to touch upon subjects many would like to gloss over. The highs and lows of puberty, first love, and growing up are notable themes in her stories.
After the critical success of Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, another adaptation of her work is on the way. This time Forever is about to take center stage in the mainstream.
The novel was already made into a TV film in 1978, yet the new one will have a slightly different reiteration. Still taking notes from the book, mega-producer Mara Brock Akil will tackle this modern-day adaptation.
Elizabeth Morris / Netflix
With a focus on Black love, Brock Akil is the right person to take the reins. Some of her credentials include creating the hit shows Girlfriends, the spinoff The Game, and Black Lightning. She was also a writer and producer on Moesha. The 54-year-old divulged to Netflix, “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.” She continued, “I’m honored to reimagine one of my favorite books, Forever.”
Besides Brock Akil, there’s another powerhouse attached to the project, Regina King. The legendary actor won’t just executive produce it, but she will also direct the first episode. Scroll down for all the latest news about Forever.
When is Forever coming out?
On January 30 the official teaser dropped, and Netflix included the “Coming Soon” title card at the end. In March 2025, Netflix revealed Forever’s premiere date: May 8.
The official trailer was released on April 10 and gave a glimpse into the show’s central love story between Keisha Clark (Lovie Simone) and Justin Edwards (Michael Cooper Jr.). From their reintroduction to figuring out their relationship status to intimacy, Forever will explore every facet of this romance.
What is Forever about?
Forever is a reimagining of the 1975 novel of the same name. The series will be set in 2018 in Los Angeles.
Two Black teens, who are exploring their own identities, come together and find something that will stay with them forever: first love. As the series follows them through periods of awkwardness and uncertainty, there will also be touching moments. Keisha and Justin will embark on a journey full of firsts.
The premise of Forever is something Brock Akil wanted to dive into. Forever will examine “the idea of your first love being with you forever.”
Who is in the cast of Forever?
Simone, who had her breakthrough role in the OWN show Greenleaf, will play Keisha in Forever. The talented actress has already proven her ability to evoke a range of emotions, so she is more than equipped to give a great performance as a young confident, smart, and fiery track star.
The other main role will be portrayed by Cooper Jr. Stepping into the role of Justin Edwards, the actor will tackle the highs and lows of being a student-athlete. He has dreams of playing D1 basketball and achieving more than his already successful parents. This role is Cooper Jr.’s first major role.
Other performers already cast in Forever are Karen Pittman as Dawn and Wood Harris as Eric, Justin’s parents. Keisha’s mom, Shelly, will be played by Xosha Roquemore. Her grandfather, George, will be played by Barry Shabaka Henley.
Additional supporting roles include Marvin Lawrence Winans III as Jaden, Justin’s younger brother; Ali Gallo as Chloe, Keisha’s best friend; Niles Fitch as Darius, Justin’s best friend; Paigion Walker as Tiffany, Keisha’s cousin’ and E’myri Crutchfield as Keisha’s rival on the track team.
Forever, Series Premiere, May 8, 2025, Netflix
