It’s been 25 years since Mara Brock Akil’s groundbreaking sitcom Girlfriends first hit TV screens, and the cast is making sure the milestone doesn’t go unnoticed. A true testament to Black television excellence!
This week, Tracee Ellis Ross, Golden Brooks, Jill Marie Jones, Persia White, and Reggie Hayes reunited with Akil at Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood for a nostalgic celebration that had fans in their feelings. Can you believe it’s been 25 years? Time flies when you’re watching iconic TV.
Ross, who played the beloved Joan Clayton, reflected on Instagram:
“25 years ago today, my life changed forever. On Monday, September 11, 2000, GIRLFRIENDS premiered on UPN. It’s so crazy to see the impact that it has had, especially for a show that existed before social media! What a special thing you created @marabrockakil! … Seeing how much it means to so many people is really something special.” And we couldn’t agree more! The show’s impact is undeniable.
Each cast member posted heartfelt tributes about what the show and the fans have meant to them. Jill Marie Jones reminisced on the show’s premiere, admitting she was nervous about whether audiences would connect with it — only to later thank the fans for 25 years of love and loyalty. Hayes, who played William, joked that the group looked like a band, quipping “SEXUAL CHOCOLATE!!” Gotta love the humor!
Golden Brooks and Persia White also shared their gratitude, with White even hinting she hopes for a proper conclusion with a Girlfriends movie someday, saying her “fingers are crossed” for the right funding. We are crossing our fingers too! A Girlfriends movie? Yes, please!
Meanwhile, Ross — who has since starred in Black-ish — admitted earlier this year that while the cast has always wanted to finish the story, a true series finale is unlikely: “I think it would be a miracle.” Never say never, Tracee!
Still, the 25-year reunion proves the legacy of Girlfriends is alive and well. From its witty writing to its trailblazing portrayal of Black women navigating love, friendship, and careers, the series continues to hold a special place in TV history. A show that continues to resonate with audiences today.
[efb_feed fanpage_id=”BlackCosmopolitan” words_limit=”25″ post_limit=”1″ skin_id=”115759″ cache_unit=”1″ cache_duration=”days” live_stream_only=”0″ load_more=”0″ links_new_tab=”1″ show_like_box=”0″] _________ Disclaimer: For Education and discussion purposes. Please note no copyright infringement is intended, was recorded on BlkCosmo’s own equipment, and we do not own nor claim to own any of the original recordings used in this video and intend to use this as ‘fair use’.
