When it comes to new shows this year if you ask anyone their current tv obsession they’re likely to name one if not all three of the series’ currently captivating audiences. Lovecraft Country, I May Destroy You, and P-Valley each are revolutionizing television in their own unique ways. While each series is vastly different when it comes to their subject matter one can not help but celebrate that the driving force behind each series is a Black woman all filling the void, expanding the world of black entertainment, and reinforcing female empowerment.
Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You is a series exploring the character's trauma and response to being sexually assaulted. In a world where women are constantly bringing to light their own assaults and naming their assaulters, the series reinforces that predators aren't just celebrities or men in power. They can be a neighbor, a friend, a stranger, and even sometimes a significant other. Coel's character is a complex, multi-layered individual, who is by no means perfect, making her character all the more relatable. The show does serve as sort of a one-off but for those still interested you can watch the series on HBO.
P-Valley's authentic view of southern strip culture is the cultural turnaround 2020 needed, and despite the raunchy theme of the show, the series offers a variety of complex women and narratives. While the show does deliver dosages of eye candy and provocative scenes what’s most thrilling about the show is the complexity of the characters, while also reinforcing female empowerment. The series was created by Katori Hall, a playwright, and activist, and premiered on Starz to positive reviews from fans and critics and has been renewed for a second season.
And then there is HBO’s Lovecraft Country which stands in a category of its own. Adapted from the novel of the same name, the series taps into the supernatural as it follows its Black protagonist who not only has to navigate the “supernatural” but also rampant racism. At first glance, one may think the series revolves solely around the black male protagonist Tick, but the moment the character Lettie appears on screen she makes it clear that this is her story too. It’s not surprising that the series showrunner Misha Green found the perfect balance to the series characters while still showcasing female empowerment.
Each series is vastly different and presents content that is rarely explored in most black programming. Thanks to these directors and creators the categories for black televised programming is expanding to new levels, offering something for viewers who have a variety of taste.
