6.5 / 10 (based on 1915 reviews)
Follows four women, estranged and out-of-touch, in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Genre: Drama, Music
Main Cast: Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez, Taylor Selé
Creators: Zahir McGhee
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1 season, 11 episodes
Shows Most Like Queens (2021)
Our Kind of People (2021)
5.9 / 10 (based on 1651 reviews)
Single mom, who risks it all and moves her family to a vineyard with hopes of taking her natural hair care line to the next level by infiltrating the African American elite in Oak Bluffs.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Yaya DaCosta, Nadine Ellis, Lance Gross, Rhyon Nicole Brown
Creators: Wendy Calhoun, Karin Gist
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1 season, 12 episodes
Harlem (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 4380 reviews)
A group of four friends follow their dreams after graduating from college together.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Meagan Good, Jerrie Johnson, Grace Byers, Shoniqua Shandai
Creators: Tracy Oliver
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1 season, 10 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
The Big Leap (2021)
7.5 / 10 (based on 2569 reviews)
A group of diverse underdogs from all different walks of life who compete to be part of a competition reality series that is putting on a modern, hip remake of “Swan Lake.”
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Scott Foley, Simone Recasner, Ser’Darius Blain, Jon Rudnitsky
Creators: Liz Heldens
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1 season, 11 episodes
Abbott Elementary (2021)
8.2 / 10 (based on 23271 reviews)
Follows a group of teachers brought together in one of the worst public schools in the country, simply because they love teaching.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter
Creators: Quinta Brunson
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1 season, 13 episodes, 22.0-minute runtime
Black Mafia Family (2021)
7.5 / 10 (based on 4876 reviews)
Two brothers who rose from the decaying streets of southwest Detroit in the late 1980’s and gave birth to one of the most influential crime families in the country.
Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Russell Hornsby, Da’Vinchi, Michole Briana White, Eric Kofi-Abrefa
Creators: Randy Huggins
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1 season, 9 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The Game (2021)
6.1 / 10 (based on 628 reviews)
New players offer a modern-day examination of Black culture through the prism of pro football, while trying to keep their souls as they play The Game.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sport
Main Cast: Wendy Raquel Robinson, Adriyan Rae, Vaughn W. Hebron, Hosea Chanchez
Creators: Mara Brock Akil
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1 season, 10 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Games People Play (2019)
6.5 / 10 (based on 552 reviews)
Three ambitious women navigate the highly competitive world of professional sports.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Lauren London, Karen Obilom, Parker McKenna Posey, Sarunas J. Jackson
Creators:
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2 seasons, 23 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Partners in Rhyme (2021)
7.5 / 10 (based on 52 reviews)
Life of a female high school rapper, social media star and foster kid who thinks she is the next Cardi B.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Wesley Jonathan, MC Lyte, Precious Way, Rolonda Watts
Creators:
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1 season, 13 episodes
Queen Sugar (2016)
7.8 / 10 (based on 5294 reviews)
Follows the life of three siblings, one of whom moves from Los Angeles to Louisiana, to claim a shared inheritance from their recently departed father – an 800-acre sugarcane farm.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Rutina Wesley, Dawn-Lyen Gardner, Kofi Siriboe, Omar J. Dorsey
Creators: Ava DuVernay
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7 seasons, 88 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Run the World (2021)
6.2 / 10 (based on 1224 reviews)
Four best friends living in Harlem strive for world domination.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Amber Stevens West, Andrea Bordeaux, Bresha Webb, Corbin Reid
Creators: Leigh Davenport
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2 seasons, 9 episodes, 28.0-minute runtime
In the landscape of television, where shows come and go with the changing seasons, few manage to leave a mark that resonates with a broad audience while addressing themes that are both timeless and contemporary. “Queens” (2021) is one such show that has managed to carve out its unique niche, blending music, drama, and the complexities of life into a narrative that is as engaging as it is thought-provoking.
The Premise
At its core, “Queens” follows the reunion of four women in their 40s who were once part of a 90s hip-hop group called the Nasty Bitches. At the height of their fame, they were on top of the world, but as time passed, their stars dimmed, and their lives took different paths. The show kicks off when they decide to reunite, aiming to recapture the fame and swagger they had in their youth, all while navigating the challenges that come with balancing their personal lives, past regrets, and the music industry’s evolving landscape.
The Characters
The strength of “Queens” lies in its characters, each bringing a unique perspective and depth to the story.
Brianna aka Professor Sex: Once the fierce and unapologetic rapper of the group, Brianna’s life is now centered around her family. Juggling the roles of a mother and wife, her journey of self-discovery and balancing her past identity with her current life forms a compelling narrative arc.
Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics: The talented songwriter of the group, Naomi’s storyline delves into the complexities of unfulfilled dreams, relationships, and the pursuit of a second chance in the industry she loves.
Jill aka Da Thrill: Jill’s story is one of self-acceptance. Once living a double life, her journey towards coming out and living openly is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of embracing one’s true self.
Valeria aka Butter Pecan: The youngest member, Valeria’s ambition and determination to stay relevant in the music industry, often at the expense of her relationships, provides an interesting commentary on fame and personal growth.
The Music
Music is the heartbeat of “Queens,” serving not just as a backdrop but as a character in its own right. The show does an excellent job of blending nostalgic 90s hip-hop with contemporary sounds, creating a soundtrack that’s both a trip down memory lane and a reflection of today’s musical landscape. The original songs performed by the cast not only showcase their talents but also serve to advance the plot, adding layers to the characters’ stories and their journey together.
Themes and Representation
“Queens” tackles a range of themes, from the challenges of aging in an industry that prizes youth, the complexities of female friendship, to the pursuit of dreams and the idea of second chances. It’s a show that doesn’t shy away from addressing the realities of life, including the messiness and the beauty that comes with it.
Moreover, the show stands out for its representation. It’s refreshing to see a series centered around four strong, complex women of color navigating life’s ups and downs. Their stories reflect a breadth of experiences and perspectives, making “Queens” a significant addition to the conversation about diversity and representation on television.
Why It Stands Out
In a television landscape filled with reboots and formulaic dramas, “Queens” offers something different. It’s a blend of nostalgia and novelty, bringing together the best of both worlds. The show’s ability to balance humor with drama, all while delivering catchy tunes and compelling performances, makes it a standout.
But perhaps what truly sets “Queens” apart is its authenticity. The characters feel real, their struggles relatable, and their victories, no matter how small, feel earned. It’s a show that celebrates friendship, resilience, and the power of music to heal and unite, themes that are universal and timeless.
Personal Anecdotes and Examples
Take, for instance, the episode where the group performs together for the first time in years. The mix of excitement and anxiety, the rush of stepping back into the spotlight, and the inevitable hiccups along the way were portrayed with such authenticity that it felt like a behind-the-scenes look at what a real-life reunion of a 90s hip-hop group would be like.
Or consider the storyline involving Brianna’s struggle to reconcile her identity as Professor Sex with her role as a mother. It’s a narrative that many can relate to – the idea of not losing oneself in the roles we play in the lives of others. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-discovery and staying true to oneself, no matter the stage of life.
Conclusion
“Queens” is more than just a TV show. It’s a celebration of life, with all its imperfections and surprises. It’s a story about friendship, resilience, and the enduring power of music. In a world where it’s easy to feel disconnected, “Queens” reminds us of the importance of finding our tribe and holding onto it, through the highs and lows.
For fans of music, drama, and stories that resonate on a deeper level, “Queens” is a must-watch. It’s a show that not only entertains but also inspires, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams or to rewrite your story.