Lifetime has released the official trailer for Eric Jerome Dickey’s Friends and Lovers, a two-part movie event inspired by the late author’s beloved novel. The adaptation headlines Naturi Naughton, Simone Missick, Kendrick Sampson, and RonReaco Lee in a story about love, friendship, and the complexities that bind them.
Set to anchor Lifetime’s November Love of a Lifetime slate, the two-night event premieres Saturday, November 15 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, with part two airing Sunday, November 16.
Synopsis:
Described as “a contemporary romantic drama exploring how friendship, passion, and forgiveness collide,” the story follows best friends Debra (Naughton), a Type A doctor, and Shelby (Missick), a free-spirited rule breaker. Their paths cross with Leonard (Sampson), a rising yet struggling comedian, and Tyrese (Lee), his loyal best friend. As Debra and Leonard’s romance blossoms and Tyrese becomes entangled in Shelby’s unpredictable world, the four find their lives transformed by tragedy — testing their connections and redefining the meaning of chosen family.
Behind the Scenes:
Produced by Undaunted and Motion Entertainment, a WPP Media Company, Friends and Lovers is directed and executive produced by D’Angela Proctor, with a script by Aireka Muse. Michael Buttiglieri and Chet Fenster also serve as executive producers.
The film continues the legacy of Eric Jerome Dickey, one of the most influential voices in contemporary Black literature. His novels — rich with humor, honesty, and emotional depth — have shaped generations of readers, and this adaptation brings his timeless storytelling to new audiences.
As part of Lifetime’s Love of a Lifetime lineup, Friends and Lovers joins Terry McMillan Presents: His, Hers, and Ours (Nov. 1), Terry McMillan Presents: Preach, Pray, Love (Nov. 8), and Toni Braxton’s He Wasn’t Man Enough (Nov. 22).