By Sheyla Fairley

Back in the day, shows like A Different World, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Sister, Sister, Living Single and Family Matters were a huge success with Black audiences. Viewers enjoyed watching characters who looked like them be at the forefront instead of just appearing in supporting roles. It also gave the broader audience a better chance at understanding African Americans.

Over the years, many of those shows have cultivated a large following in the Black community, and they are still looked at fondly.

Today, there are more shows with Black leads, life stories, and plots that entertain.

Here are some that you may want to unwind with.  These newer shows may rise in popularity and end up resonating with audiences like their predecessors did.

Harlem (2021- )

A group of four friends “living in the famed neighborhood in Upper Manhattan” try to balance love, life, and their careers.^[5]  

Starring: Meagan Good, Grace Byers, Shoniqua Shandai, & Jerrie Johnson

Where to Stream:

Abbott Elementary  (2021- )

A group of dedicated teachers “find themselves thrown together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life.”^[6] 

Starring: Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, & Sheryl Lee Ralph

Network: ABC

Where to stream:

Bel-Air  (2022- )

Re-imagined as a more dramatic take of the 1990-1996 sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the series follows Will Smith as he moves from the streets of West Philadelphia to live with his wealthy relatives in LA.   

Starring: Jabari Banks, Olly Sholotan, Adrian Holmes, & Coco Jones

Where to stream:

All American: Homecoming (2022- )

Spin-off of All American, the series follows a “young tennis hopeful and an elite baseball player chase their dreams while dealing with the never-ending hurdles of college life.”^[7] 

Starring: Geffri Maya, Peyton Alex Smith, Kelly Jenrette, & Cory Hardrict

Network: The CW

Where to stream: