Netflix’s upcoming adaptation of Judy Blume’s novel “Forever” has added Anthony Hemingway to its roster of directors. Hemingway, known for his work on acclaimed shows like “Genius: Aretha” and “Power Book II: Ghost,” will helm multiple episodes of the series. Regina King and her sister Reina King are also credited as directing one episode each.
READ: Netflix Rounds Out Cast for ‘Forever’ Series Adaptation from Mara Brock Akil
The series, created by Mara Brock Akil, stars Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. in lead roles. The official logline states the series 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.
Hemingway is set to direct four episodes in total, including the second, third, seventh, and eighth installments. In addition to his directing role, he will also serve as an executive producer, expanding his creative involvement in the project.
Joining Simone and Cooper Jr. in the series are Karen Pittman, Wood Harris, Adriyan Rae, Xosha Roquemore, and Marvin Lawrence Winans III as regular cast members. The ensemble cast also includes Barry Shabaka Henley, Ali Gallo, Niles Fitch, Paigion Walker, and E’myri Crutchfield in recurring roles.
“Forever” marks a significant project under Mara Brock Akil’s Netflix overall deal, signed in 2020. Alongside adapting the novel for the screen, Akil takes on the roles of showrunner and executive producer. Judy Blume, the author of the source material, joins a lineup of executive producers that includes King, Hemingway, Susie Fitzgerald, Erika Harrison, Sara White, Reina King, and Shana C. Waterman.
Hemingway’s inclusion adds to the anticipation surrounding the series, given his track record of delivering compelling storytelling in television. With his experience directing notable series like “The Wire,” “Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G.,” and “Heroes,” Hemingway brings a wealth of expertise to “Forever.”
As production continues and anticipation builds, fans can look forward to Hemingway’s signature touch in bringing the heartfelt and impactful story of “Forever” to life on Netflix’s platform.