Inside the “Love Is___” Premiere Screening & After Party

Michele Weaver (“Illicit”) and Will Catlett (“Black Lightning”) star in OWN’s new romantic drama “Love Is__,” from award-winning producers Mara Brock Akil (“Girlfriends,” Being Mary Jane,” “The Game”) and Salim Akil (“Black Lightning”). Set primarily in 1990’s Los Angeles against the backdrop of Black Hollywood, “Love Is__” 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.

“Love Is___” also features Primetime Emmy®-winner Loretta Devine (“Grey’s Anatomy”), NAACP Image Award-nominee Vanessa Bell Calloway (“Coming to America”), NAACP Image Award-winner Tim Reid (“Sister, Sister”), Tosin Morohunfola (“The Chi”), Tammy Townsend (“Sherri”), and Michael King (“Black Lightning”), all with recurring roles.

Mara Brock Akil serves as showrunner on the series, which she and Salim Akil created and executive produce through their company Akil Productions, in association with Warner Horizon Scripted Television.

Get into a few pics from the Premiere Screening & After Party at NeueHouse Hollywood. It was an abundance of joy and networking.

Photo credit: Courtesy of OWN/Photographer: Chris Frawley