The trailer for “Queenie” drops, setting the tone for the series centered on the life antics of Queenie Jenkins. It hints at her spending a lot of time with her boyfriend, though they haven’t broken up yet. The first snippet reveals a possible reason for the breakup: his grandmother. Her boyfriend’s white grandma remarks that their kids will be cute but outcasts, to which Queenie responds, hoping she would be dead before meeting them.
The overall series focuses on the theme of a quarter-life crisis, showcasing the ups and downs of being young, Black, and not having it all together. A delightful surprise in the trailer is Joseph Marcell as her grandad (Wilfred). This drama-filled series promises fun and intrigue, set to be released on Hulu on June 7th.
Based on Candice Carty-Williams’ bestselling novel of the same name, the eight-episode series produced by Further South Productions in association with Lionsgate TV.
“Queenie” revolves around the complex life of Queenie Jenkins, a 25-year-old Jamaican British woman navigating love, identity, and self-discovery in south London following a tumultuous breakup. Dionne Brown takes on the role of Queenie, a curvaceous and outspoken individual striving for success in a predominantly white workplace while battling her own emotions and a tendency for self-sabotage.
The series stars Dionne Brown as Queenie Jenkins, Samuel Adewunmi as Frank, Joseph Marcell as Grandad (Wilfred), and marks the acting debut of R&B singer Bellah as Kyazike. Sally Phillips, Jon Pointing, Tilly Keeper, Llewella Gideon, Michelle Greenidge, Cristale De’Abreu, Elisha Applebaum, and Mim Shaikh round out the cast.
Adewunmi’s Frank is Queenie’s older cousin and a community-oriented man with ambitious plans for the future. Having known Queenie since their high school days, Frank serves as her intellectual match, challenging her to face her truths with heartfelt honesty. Bellah portrays Kyazike, Queenie’s loyal best friend from school. With a Ugandan heritage and an eye for fashion, Kyazike adds depth and humor to the series as she embarks on a quest for Mr. Right, placing financial prowess high on her list of requirements.
Candice Carty-Williams, the creator of the novel, serves as both showrunner and executive producer for the series. The production is supported by non-writing executive producers Steve November and Sarah Conroy from Further South Productions, with Lisa Walters as co-executive producer and series producer.
“Queenie” tackles themes of womanhood, identity, and self-realization, offering viewers a compelling narrative that reflects contemporary experiences. As the premiere date approaches, fans can look forward to an engaging and authentic adaptation that brings Queenie’s story to life on screen.
