As spring unfolds, so does a fresh wave of must-watch TV shows—and Black leads are owning the screen in ways that feel powerful, overdue, and deeply inspiring. Whether it’s stories of love, second chances, or dystopian futures, this season’s lineup is packed with performances that prove once again that Black excellence isn’t just present in Hollywood—it’s leading the way.
Here’s a look at the spring shows coming your way with Black leads who are absolutely killing it:
Government Cheese
Streaming on Apple TV+ | Premieres April 16
David Oyelowo returns with a raw, unforgettable performance in Government Cheese, a gripping drama that follows Hampton Chambers—a man trying to rebuild his life after years in prison. Set in the late 1960s, the series digs deep into the complexities of reentry into society and the quiet pain of returning to a world that’s moved on without you. Expect layered storytelling, heartbreak, and hope in equal measure.
Forever
Streaming on Netflix | Premieres May 8
From Mara Brock Akil, the creator behind hits like Girlfriends and Being Mary Jane, comes Forever—a tender, nostalgic love story set in 2018 Los Angeles. Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. lead this tale of two teens—Keisha and Justin—finding themselves and each other through all the awkward, beautiful, and messy moments of young love. It’s soft Black love on screen, and it’s everything.
Black Mirror Season 7
Streaming on Netflix | Premieres April 10
Black Mirror is back—and this time, it’s bringing some of Hollywood’s most beloved Black actresses into the twisted world of tech and truth. Tracee Ellis Ross, Issa Rae, and Rashida Jones are set to star in this season’s stories, each tackling eerie and thought-provoking themes that feel just close enough to our own reality. It’s stylish, unsettling, and completely unmissable.
Apologies for the earlier omissions. Here are additional spring TV shows featuring Black leads that are making significant waves in Hollywood:
Dope Thief
• Platform: Apple TV+
• Premiere Date: March 14, 2025
• Synopsis: Based on Dennis Tafoya’s 2009 novel, this crime drama stars Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura as friends in Philadelphia who pose as DEA agents to rob a house, only to discover they’ve targeted a massive narcotics operation. The series, created by Peter Craig, combines taut action with a poignant exploration of loyalty and survival.
The Residence
• Platform: Netflix
• Premiere Date: March 20, 2025
• Synopsis: Created by Shonda Rhimes, this murder mystery set in the White House stars Uzo Aduba as Detective Cordelia Cupp, who leads an investigation into a shocking crime. The ensemble cast includes Randall Park, Giancarlo Esposito, and Susan Kelechi Watson, promising a suspenseful and character-driven whodunnit.
Ironheart
• Platform: Disney+
• Premiere Date: June 24, 2025
• Synopsis: Dominique Thorne reprises her role as Riri Williams, a young genius crafting a suit to rival Iron Man’s, in this Marvel series set in Chicago. Anthony Ramos co-stars as Parker Robbins, aka The Hood, creating a compelling antagonist. The show delves into themes of innovation and resilience while expanding the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s narrative.
Bel-Air (Season 4)
• Platform: Peacock
• Premiere Date: 2025
• Synopsis: The reimagined drama series returns for its fourth and final season, continuing to explore Will’s journey as he navigates the complexities of life in Bel-Air. The show offers a fresh take on the beloved ’90s sitcom, delving deeper into themes of identity, family, and belonging.
Survival of the Thickest (Season 2)
• Platform: Netflix
• Premiere Date: March 27, 2025
• Synopsis: Michelle Buteau returns as Mavis Beaumont, a Black, plus-size stylist navigating love and self-acceptance in New York City. The second season continues to explore her journey with humor and heart, introducing new characters and challenges along the way.
These series further showcase the depth and versatility of Black talent in Hollywood, offering diverse narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Why This Matters
These aren’t just new shows—they’re part of a cultural shift. Black characters are no longer being pushed to the sidelines or flattened into stereotypes. These stories are nuanced, bold, and unapologetically centered around Black lives in all their depth and richness.
So whether you’re looking for a show to binge or something to savor week-by-week, this spring’s TV season proves that Black stories aren’t just trending—they’re thriving.
