Mara Brock Akil set to reimagine Judy Blume’s ‘Forever’ as Netflix series
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Judy Blume’s popular 1975 novel “Forever” is being adapted into a Netflix series.
Award-winning writer and producer Mara Brock Akil will reimagine the beloved teen story for “a new generation,” Netflix announced Thursday.
Akil is known for the popular TV series “Girlfriends,” “Being Mary Jane” and “Black Lightning.”
The Netflix reboot isn’t the first adaptation of “Forever.” It was adapted for a 1978 made-for-TV movie starring Stephanie Zimbalist and Dean Butler on CBS.
A frequent target of censorship due to its focus on teenage sexuality, “Forever” was listed on BBC News’ 100 most influential novels in 2019.
“It’s an epic love story of two Black teens exploring romance and their identities through the awkward journey of being each other’s firsts,” the streaming giant stated.
“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,’” Akil said in a statement.
“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.”
Blume is an executive producer of the series, alongside Akil, who also serves as the showrunner.
A launch date for “Forever” hasn’t been announced.
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