OWN has set Tuesday, June 19 for the premiere of Love Is__, its new hourlong relationship drama from Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil. The series will debut at 10 PM following Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots at 9 PM.
Created and executive produced by the Akils, Love Is ___ is set primarily in 1990’s Los Angeles against the backdrop of Black Hollywood. It follows Nuri (Michele Weaver) and Yasir (Will Catlett), a couple from seemingly opposite worlds, as they chase their dreams and learn to follow their hearts.
Told from the perspective of the couple’s present-day selves, the romantic drama also revisits the social issues and vibrant black culture of that time reflecting on how it all aligned to shape the couple they have become nearly 20 years later — a power couple navigating a complex set of social codes while also balancing successful careers and a beautiful family. Drawing inspiration from creators Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil’s own relationship journey, the series explores the highs, the lows, and the magic of falling (and staying) in love.
In addition to Weaver and Catlett, the cast includes Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing, Tyrone Marshall Brown, Idara Victor, Kadeem Hardison, Clarke Peters and Wendy Davis. Loretta Devine, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Tim Reid, Tosin Morohunfola, Tammy Townsend and Michael King are set for recurring roles.
