Forever (2025) on Netflix: Cast, Plot, Release Date & Everything About the Heartfelt Romance Drama

"You always remember your first." With that emotional tagline, FOREVER is poised to sweep viewers into a tender, heartwarming, and at times heart-wrenching journey through young love. Premiering May 8, 2025, on Netflix, this coming-of-age drama is a powerful and fresh adaptation of Judy Blume’s classic novel, reimagined for a new generation by trailblazing showrunner Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane).

🌟 Inspired by Judy Blume’s Iconic Novel

For decades, Judy Blume's Forever… has stood as a cultural touchstone — a fearless, honest exploration of teenage love and sexual awakening. Now, with FOREVER, that story is transported to 2018 Los Angeles, where it gains new resonance amidst modern high school life, social pressures, and the complexities of young Black love.

Directed by Regina King, the series promises emotional depth, visual flair, and characters that will linger long after the credits roll.

💞 The Story: First Love in Full Bloom

When childhood friends Keisha Clark and Justin Edwards reconnect as teenagers, sparks fly, and an intense romance blossoms. Both are student-athletes navigating their futures, their families, and their dreams — but the joy of first love is also shadowed by the uncertainties of growing up.

As the series unfolds, viewers will witness the highs and lows of a relationship built on connection, passion, and youthful idealism. It's a love that’s tender, messy, and deeply real.

🎬 Cast & Characters

Lovie Simone (Greenleaf, Selah and the Spades) stars as Keisha, a headstrong, talented track star with big dreams and a bigger heart. Michael Cooper Jr. shines as Justin, a sweet-natured basketball prodigy with ambitions beyond the court.

The supporting cast adds richness and depth:

• Xosha Roquemore as Shelly, Keisha’s protective mother

• Wood Harris (The Wire) as Eric, Justin’s dad

• Karen Pittman as Dawn, Justin’s driven mom

• Barry Shabaka Henley as George, Keisha’s wise grandfather

• Ali Gallo, Niles Fitch, and E’myri Crutchfield as close friends and rivals

🎧 A Contemporary Soundtrack & Visual Vibe

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of L.A., FOREVER brings 2018 to life with a soundtrack full of throwback R&B, youthful bops, and emotional ballads. The cinematography captures the dreamlike glow of first love while grounding the story in honest, everyday reality.

💬 Why It Matters

More than just a teen romance, FOREVER is a celebration of Black youth, Black love, and authentic storytelling. It explores consent, independence, identity, and the choices that shape us — all through a lens that’s rarely seen on screen at this level.

With Judy Blume herself on board as an executive producer, this adaptation carries the emotional integrity of the original while making it boldly relevant.

📅 Mark Your Calendar

Whether you’re a fan of Judy Blume’s work, a sucker for first love stories, or just looking for your next emotional binge, FOREVER is the series to watch this spring.

Streaming only on Netflix, May 8, 2025.

Because some love stories stay with you. Forever. ❤️

Are you planning to watch FOREVER? Let me know what Judy Blume stories meant to you growing up!