A Judy Blume classic has inspired a new and “epic love story.”
“Forever,” a reimagined version of the 1957 young adult novel, follows the story of two Black teens, Keisha and Justin, exploring and their identities through the awkward journey of being each other’s first.
The book, too, follows a young couple as they navigate relationships, sex and high school. Keisha and Justin’s love story, however, is set against the sun-drenched backdrop of 2018 Los Angeles.
“All the questions we have to sort through — the first time you have sex, your first kiss, the first time you say ‘I love you’ — it resonated then, and it resonates now,” executive producer and showrunner Mara Brock Akil told Netflix.
Blume, who was not completely confident the story would translate, gave Brock Akil her blessing after hearing her perspective.
“I’m thrilled that Mara has chosen to tell this story through her own lens,” Blume told Netflix. “It is gratifying to know that, 50 years after its release, the love story at the core of ‘Forever’ is still resonating with audiences.”
Here’s what to know about “Forever,” including the premiere date, cast and how to watch.
What is ‘Forever’ about?
“Forever” is an “epic love story of two Black teens exploring romance and their identities through the awkward journey of being each other’s firsts, set in Los Angeles, 2018,” according to the show’s official logline.
‘Forever’ cast
Though Keisha and Justin’s love story is front and center, viewers will also get to know those closest to the teens, including close friends and family.
The cast for “Forever” includes:
Lovie Simone as Keisha Clark
Michael Cooper Jr. as Justin Edwards
Ali Gallo as Keisha’s best friend Chloe
Niles Fitch as Justin’s best friend Darius
E’myri Crutchfield as Keisha’s rival Tammy
Karen Pittman as Justin’s mother Dawn
Wood Harris as Justin’s father Eric
Xosha Roquemore as Keisha’s mother Shelly
Marvin Lawrence Winans III as Justin’s younger brother Jason
Barry Shabaka Henley as Keisha’s grandfather George
Paigion Walker as Keisha’s older cousin Tiffany
How to watch ‘Forever’
“Forever” will premiere May 8 on Netflix.
Watch the ‘Forever’ trailer
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to watch ‘Forever:’ Premiere date, time, cast, trailer
