In the heart of Netflix’s Forever, there might not be a timeless romance that everyone can wholly identify with, but the emotions portrayed are definitely relatable.
Created by Mara Block Akil, this new series features Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. as Keisha Clark and Justin Edwards. The narrative, reminiscent of stories from decades past, explores the intricacies of young love, early sexual encounters, and a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
To portray this on-screen, Cooper Jr. needed to think back to his teenage years, reconnecting with both the good and challenging aspects. For him, stepping into Justin’s shoes—a budding athlete grappling with academic pressures—meant navigating the emotional depths of his character. He remarked, “Honestly, I felt nervous stepping into his skin. He’s such a sensitive and vulnerable guy, but it also felt like a healing journey.”
For Simone, relating to her character’s initial romantic experiences allowed her to explore the awkwardness and simplicities of adolescent relationships, enhancing her craft as an actress. “We’ve all been a bit awkward in those initial moments. It’s about expressing that drama authentically,” she shared.
During a discussion with the actors, they reflected on the palpable awkwardness between their characters, contrasting it with the often idealized portrayals of teenage romance. Simone noted, “It’s really about tapping into that uncomfortable feeling and bringing it to life dramatically.” Cooper Jr. added, “I remember feeling out of place in high school. Many teenagers today are portrayed in ways that feel too polished. Forever truly captures the complex experiences of young people.”
Addressing the challenges of connecting with their roles, Cooper Jr. mentioned the emotional weight of his character, stating, “Justin’s struggles resonate with me, especially regarding ADHD. I understand that intense focus and the challenges of switching between tasks.” Simone related to Keisha’s reserved nature, sharing, “Like her, I was a bit shy in high school. It was interesting to portray that journey while digging through past traumas.”
In a playful exchange, the actors discussed their characters’ musical tastes. Simone imagined Keisha listening to artists like Dokii and Destin Conrad in 2025, while Cooper Jr. suggested Justin would likely find inspiration in J. Cole, emphasizing the emotional depth of his music.
As the conversation wrapped up, they recognized their characters’ enduring connection to music, confirming that classic tracks would always resonate with them.
Forever is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
