Revered showrunner Mara Brock Akil, has inked a multi-year overall deal with Netflix to create new original content.
Brock Akil is responsible for several iconic shows such as series as Girlfriends, The Game and Being Mary Jane.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mara Brock Akil to Netflix,” said Channing Dungey, VP Original Series, Netflix. “Her signature storytelling, authentic perspective and captivating characters have long entertained audiences and proven to be relevant, timely and endlessly engaging. We look forward to bringing her distinct voice, vision and passion to our global members.”
Just last week, Girlfriends debuted on the streaming platform to mark its 20th anniversary.
“It is a dream to partner with the force of Netflix, for we have the same goals—telling human stories for a global audience,” said Brock Akil. “I’m excited to have a home that allows me the creative freedom and support to do what I do best– paint portraits and murals of women, Black people and anyone else whose story is missing from this golden age of television. Representation matters and so does who you build with– I can’t wait to work closely with Channing Dungey and her team to launch some great stories.”
It’s been a massive year for the talented producer. In January, it was announced that she was tapped to develop and write a scripted series to air on Fox as part of a network-direct script deal with Fox Entertainment.
“Mara is a truly gifted writer, with a strong point of view,” Michael Thorn, president of entertainment at Fox Entertainment, said during the Television Critics Association’s winter press tour. “From ‘Girlfriends’ to ‘The Game’ to ‘Being Mary Jane,’ she’s a proven hitmaker with the unique ability to write both comedy and drama.”
