The series begins with Keisha reconnecting with Justin—an old classmate, a new flame—at a house party. Their relationship unfolds over cute dates and study sessions, the two of them picking their way through all the messy, beautiful confusion of growing up. And when she and Justin finally have sex for the first time, Keisha is given the space to explore what physical connection looks like on her terms: The weight of her past lingers, and she’s still learning to trust herself, set boundaries, and speak up when something feels wrong. (All the while, Justin’s parents, a successful Black couple who balance being strict and supportive, give us a window into the kind of lasting partnership we all hope for—showing what love can look like across generations.)

By now, Mara Brock Akil is known for creating impactful shows with complex Black leads—from Girlfriends to Being Mary Jane and The Game. Her previous characters have always been richly layered, and Keisha is no different. Her resonance begins with her look: She doesn’t wear much makeup, goes between rocking braids and her natural hair, and—in true LA fashion—wears gold loops and a nameplate necklace.

She’s smart, funny, and has excellent taste in music. But she’s also a people-pleaser, often quieting her own needs to keep things easy for her mom—a single parent working long hours to put her daughter through school. It’s maybe why so many adults have found themselves drawn to the series: Keisha’s story is powerful in its very familiarity. She speaks to a younger, more vulnerable version of ourselves.

Akil’s ability to capture our complexities, joys, and growing pains gives her work a signature magic—though she wasn’t the only Black woman who helped to set Forever on its feet. There was also the work of costume designer Tanja Caldwell, casting director Kim Taylor Coleman, and Regina King, who serves as both executive producer and director of one episode.

Just as Moesha has stood the test of time—29 years later, it’s still finding new audiences—I hope Forever becomes that lasting touchstone for a new generation, a show they can grow up with and return to. It’s not radical to ask for more stories like this—it’s rightful.