I’ve been going back and forth about what to post this month. As an avid TV watcher, the idea came to me one day while surfing Hulu to find something to watch. I realized many of my favorite shows are now available on different streaming services. It’s also Black History Month, so why not write about the Black tv shows that impacted my life most? I’m also a lifelong learner, so I chose to write about five shows that taught me something important.
What I Learned: Everything
I think A Different World is one of the greatest TV shows ever. Period. I’ve thought about developing a college course about the show because it would be awesome! No other show offers as many life lessons as this one. This might sound a little extra, but I think it should be a requirement to watch this series. I think it’s just that valuable. They literally covered every life topic you can imagine. I started watching A Different World when I was about seven years old, contributing to my desire to go to college. I’m proud of my academic journey, but I would trade it all to go to Hillman. I will always consider it my first alma mater.
Where to Watch: Philo and Netflix
Spoiler Alert: I love this show to pieces, but the conflict in the last two episodes upsets me. Dwayne was wrong for being so rude to Ron about the idea they came up with together! I’ve only been watching the show for almost 30 years, but what do I know? Watch the whole series for yourself and form your own opinion.
What I Learned: Love and Loyalty
I’ve been watching Martin since I was two years old, and I quote the show at least twice a day. I don’t care who you are. You can’t see me in a game of Martin trivia. I have a long list of favorite episodes, but one of the things I love most about the show is the love between Martin and Gina. A lot of people stand Whitley and Dwayne, but I never did. That’s another post for another day. However, I’ve always admired Martin and Gina’s friendship and relationship. No matter what shenanigans either of them got into, they always had each other’s backs.
Where to Watch: Philo and Netflix
Spoiler Alert: First of all, if you haven’t already seen Martin, you’ve been missing out. Martin is the funniest show I’ve ever watched, but the engagement episode always makes me cry. Don’t judge me, but it’s such a sweet proposal that included Tommy, Cole, and Pam. I also think the anniversary episode when Martin bought Gina a step stool was SO sweet.
What I Learned: It’s Wild Out Here
This show was ahead of its time. It was the 90s, bring in two characters with NY swag and charm and musical performances from the hottest artists. Does it get any better? JC and Torres were the perfect pair. They loved their job, fought hard to fight crime, and still made time to handle things in their personal lives. I’m not gonna lie, some of the cases are mind-blowing. It showed me the rougher side of the world and served as a reminder to be mindful of who you deal with and where you spend your time.
Where to Watch: Hulu and Tubi
Spoiler Alert: There are a couple of episodes with Ice-T as a guest star. You will not like him, I promise you. So be prepared. There’s an episode with him where I literally fast-forward to the end just to make sure Torres was okay because Ice T played that good of a villain that I forgot it was just a show.
What I Learned: The Value of Friendship
Too many of y'all are sleeping on Bigger. I have yet to tell someone about this show, and they tell me they’ve seen it, and I think it’s a disgrace. Bigger is the new millennials’ Living Single. I connected with the show instantly because it’s the first time I saw a group of friends that reminded me of the friends I’ve always wanted. The Ride or Die 5 has a solid bond, and I would love to have that support system. It’s funny, it’s relatable, and it feels like home. I’m a lover of character development, and I love all of the characters individually and how they interact as a whole. Bigger became such a favorite that I bought the series just in case it’s taken off BET Plus, so I’ll still be able to watch it.
Where to Watch: BET Plus
Spoiler Alert: This show was unfortunately canceled after just two seasons. I don’t know why, even if someone tells me, I won’t be satisfied. Although it ended well, it could have continued to go much further. I’m so happy that Tracey and Veronica chose themselves in the end. We don’t see that often. And we deserve to see a Deon and Layne wedding. I can’t even imagine how the rest of the crew would act when they found out, but I’m sure they would all come together to celebrate their wedding.
What I Learned: The Importance of Excellent Writing Skills and Character Development
Where to Watch: BET Plus and Philo
The first episode of this show had me shook! I showed up a Morris Chestnut fan and stayed for Diaharra’s creativity. This show left me on the edge of my seat like no other show has in years. I was amazed by the perfect blend of comedy and suspense. I’ve never seen anything like this. As a writer, I truly admire the writers of this show. If and when I get the opportunity to write for a television show or film, no matter the genre, I want it to captivate viewers the way this show captivated me. I’m not playing with y’all, I watched the first episode literally three times in a row because it was just that good. I looked forward to sitting down to watch this every Wednesday. And I was on board to find out the truth along with Diaharra.
Spoiler Alert: I knew she would find Chris/Ambient/Deonte, but I didn’t know how. And I’m so glad she did because if I had to wait to find out, I would have been distraught as I was so emotionally invested. Also, I love Danger’s character. All of the characters are so well developed. Diaharra, you did that! And I hope to see you do it again soon in season 2?!