Netflix has just released the official trailer for Forever, the dreamy, heartfelt coming-of-age drama from creator and showrunner Mara Brock Akil. Based on Judy Blume’s landmark 1975 novel, the series premieres globally on May 8, 2025, and from the looks of this newly dropped trailer—it’s impossible not to fall in love.
A modern reimagining of Blume’s novel, Forever follows the emotional and intimate journey of two Black teens—Keisha Clark (Lovie Simone) and Justin Edwards (Michael Cooper Jr.)—as they navigate the complexities of first love, identity, and self-discovery. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles in 2018, the story explores the pivotal firsts that shape young adulthood: first kisses, first heartbreaks, and the first time saying “I love you.”
Mara Brock Akil, the mind behind Girlfriends and Being Mary Jane, brings her signature depth and nuance to this series. “I’ve always credited Judy Blume as part of the seasoning of my voice as a writer,” Akil told Netflix. “She was one of the first writers I read that dared to be honest about the human condition in young people, and you can see traces of her writing style within my own. I’m honored to reimagine one of my favorite books, Forever.”
Even Judy Blume herself is on board. “I’m thrilled that Mara has chosen to tell this story through her own lens,” Blume shared. “It is gratifying to know that, 50 years after its release, the love story at the core of Forever is still resonating with audiences.”
The series stars Lovie Simone (Manhunt, Greenleaf) as Keisha, a smart, confident, fiery track star, and Michael Cooper Jr. (On the Come Up) as Justin, a shy but driven basketball player with dreams of going D1. Their instant chemistry anchors the series, and casting the right pair was key. “When I saw them together during a work session Regina [King] hosted, I wasn’t in an audition anymore,” Akil recalled. “I saw the world come together around them.”
The cast also includes Karen Pittman as Dawn, Justin’s protective and polished mother; Wood Harris as Eric, his more laid-back but emotionally present father; Xosha Roquemore as Shelly, Keisha’s hardworking mom; and Marvin Lawrence Winans III as Jaden, Justin’s younger brother who looks up to him.
Rounding out the ensemble are Barry Shabaka Henley as Keisha’s grandfather George; Ali Gallo as Chloe, Keisha’s best friend; Niles Fitch as Darius, Justin’s charming best friend; Paigion Walker as Tiffany, Keisha’s older cousin and new mom; Adriyan Rae as Brittany; E’myri Crutchfield as Tammy, Keisha’s track rival; and Xavier Mills as Christian Boykin.
The series is executive produced by Mara Brock Akil, Regina King, Reina King, Judy Blume, Susie Fitzgerald, Erika Harrison, Sara White, Shana C. Waterman, and Anthony Hemingway, who also directs four episodes. Regina King directs the premiere episode, bringing even more emotional weight to this poignant love story.
“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,” Regina King said. “It resonated then, and it resonates now.”
With its sun-soaked visuals, emotional honesty, and a powerhouse creative team, Forever is poised to become a defining love story for a new generation. Watch the trailer now and mark your calendars—Forever premieres May 8 only on Netflix.