'Forever' isn’t just a Netflix show. It’s a cultural statement on Black teenagers.

The Netflix series "Forever," adapted by Mara Brock Akil from Judy Blume’s beloved novel, has captivated audiences — spending a month in Netflix’s Top 10. In this intimate conversation with UATL podcast co-host Nedra Rhone, Akil reflects on the ongoing challenge of representing complex Black women on screen and the heart of the show: Two Black teens in Los Angeles navigating love, identity and the messiness of growing up. You can listen to the full interview with Mara Brock Akil on the first episode of UATL's new podcast “It’s UATL.” New episodes drop every Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts. Visit “It’s UATL” to follow and listen. Credits: AJC | Forever/Netflix | Rotten Tomatoes/YouTube | Tirirpsroirraw/YouTube | BETNETWORKS/YouTube | OWN/Facebook | Still Watching Netflix/YouTube