Netflix has finalized the casting for “Forever,” the forthcoming drama series based on Judy Blume’s 1975 novel of the same name. Xosha Roquemore, known for her role in “Captain America,” and Marvin Lawrence Winans III from “Abbott Elementary” are set to join as series regulars in the project created by Mara Brock Akil.
Joining them are five actors in recurring roles: Barry Shabaka Henley (“A Star is Born”), Ali Gallo (“Unhuman”), Niles Fitch (“This is Us”), Paigion Walker (“All American”), and E’myri Crutchfield (“Fargo”).
They all join previously cast Lovie Simone, Michael Cooper Jr., Karen Pittman, Wood Harris, and Adriyan Rae.
The series, greenlit by Netflix in 2022, delves into the profound love story between two Black adolescents, Keisha Clark (portrayed by Simone) and Justin Edwards (brought to life by Cooper Jr.), as they navigate the complexities of romance and self-discovery against the backdrop of 2018 Los Angeles. Reflecting the essence of its source material, the show promises to explore the enduring nature of first love, as articulated by Brock Akil.
Regina King is attached as an executive producer and director of the first episode.
Roquemore takes on the role of Shelly, Keisha’s resilient mother, while Winans plays Jaden, Justin’s adoring younger brother. Henley portrays George, Keisha’s laid-back grandfather, and Gallo embodies Chloe, Keisha’s confident best friend. Fitch steps into the role of Darius, Justin’s charismatic best friend, while Walker plays Tiffany, one of Keisha’s stylish older cousins. Crutchfield rounds out the cast as Tammy, Keisha’s competitive rival on the high school track team.
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This project marks the first series under Mara Brock Akil’s Netflix overall deal, signed in 2020. As the showrunner and executive producer, Brock Akil is adapting Blume’s novel for the screen. Other executive producers include Judy Blume, Regina King, Susie Fitzgerald, Erika Harrison, Sara White, Reina King, and Shana C. Waterman.
Rae’s credits include Paramount+’s reboot of The Game, Vagrant Queen, Chicago Fire, Light As A Feather, Superfly, Burning Sands. She’s also guest starred on shows like Atlanta, American Soul, and Star.