And here’s why…

Ok, so first of all, I really don’t even watch TV series like that. I have commitment issues when it comes to tv shows like Tyler Perry’s Sistas because sometimes the longer it goes on, and the more outrageous the storylines get, I become uninterested and I’m checking out. I prefer movies, you know. Something that has a definite end date.

In the rare event that I do get into a TV show, I have to know in advance how many seasons it has. Around 6 seasons is my cutoff. Anything more than that, I’m getting antsy and I wanna know how it ends, damnit. So after seeing Meagan Good and the beautiful ensemble of other black actresses on The Sherry Shepard Show promoting their final season, it piqued my interest.

In full transparency, I’ve actually already finished the series in its entirety (& won’t give away any spoilers) but when I got home on Valentine’s Day night with my homestyle honey hot wings & coziest set of Cozy Earth pajamas with plans to start watching Apple Cider Vinegar on Netflix my smart TV notified me that Harlem was LIVE on Amazon Prime.

Initially, I turned on the TV just as background noise while I was preparing to shower and settle in for the night with my snacks and bamboo stretch-knit jammies. I curled up on the couch and before I knew it, I was reminiscing my own relationships past along with Camille, the multi-dimensional, curious college professor, played by Meagan Good all the while vibing out to the soundtrack of, as far as I’m concerned underrated musical artists like Casedi, Kiana Lede, Emanuel, & Janine [Sidebar: I’ve been using her single Saved Me as a love song to myself].

A part of the reason I love this series is because as I’ve said many times, it is literally the Black version of Sex & the City. Camille Parks aka Meagan Good is clearly the Black Carrie Bradshaw (not to be confused, honey with TheRealBlackCarrieBradshaw). Quinn Joseph (Grace Byers), I knew her as Kitty Boo-boo from Empire, channels Charlotte York. Angie Wilson brilliantly portrayed by Shoniqua Shandai is hands-down Samantha Jones 2.0. And Ty (Tyesha) Reynolds (Jerrie Johnson) is Miranda Hobbs. From the fashion to the relatable relationships and situationships in both series, this was one of many similarities that I noticed between the two shows.

I also loved how the show’s first-person narration, told through Camille’s perspective, added deeper context to the storyline. But what I truly appreciate about Harlem is how it reflects the complexities of modern-day dating—not just in romantic relationships, but in the often-overlooked dynamics of mother-daughter connections, which I actually researched in college. The show also delves into professional relationships from multiple angles, thoughtfully addressing issues like race, gender, and lifestyle choices, all without feeling forced. But what really stood out to me were the friendships—watching these strong, successful, and stunningly unique women navigate life with unapologetic vulnerability felt so real and refreshing. There’s something deeply reassuring about seeing these women embrace their authenticity & insecurities while also growing together, and it felt like a safe space for me as a viewer and as a Woman.

Aside from the obvious pros, insanely talented and stunningly gorgeous leading Black women set to the backdrop of a city so rich in culture — pop culture and Black culture, this show is just as equally well written and showcases the brilliance of the show’s writers and creators in their ability to creatively infuse real-life issues that Black women of a particular age can resonate with.

Watching Harlem is like replaying my own relationships in my head with a different ending, at times. Watching Harlem feels like catching up with a group of your closest girlfriends after not talking for a long time. The show strikes this perfect balance between nostalgia and optimism, making you feel both grounded and inspired. It’s that kind of fleeting bliss that gives you a sense of hope, reminding you that your own happily ever after might just be within reach.#HarlemEverAfter

I enjoyed watching the evolution of the friend group of Camille, Angie, Ty, & Quinn as well as their personal growth from Season 1 to Season 3. Harlem captures the essence of friendship and self-discovery, especially for Black women navigating love, careers, and everything in between.

Watching Harlem felt like more than just following a storyline—it was like stepping into the lives of four incredible women, each navigating their own unique journey while sharing the bond of sisterhood. From Camille’s career twists and love life to Angie’s unapologetic self-expression, Ty’s professional rise, and Quinn’s introspective journey, each character’s growth felt real and inspiring with just the perfect sprinkle of idealism. As the series unfolds, you not only witness their personal challenges but also see the strength of their friendship evolve, offering a refreshing reminder of how important it is to have a supportive circle & unique perspectives. It’s a beautiful blend of humor, heart, and empowerment that truly captures the essence of being a Black woman in today’s world. Harlem, in all its complexity, will undoubtedly continue to resonate with viewers long after the final episode.