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Natalie Baszile Novel 'Friends and Family' Becomes Series
29 Oct
Summary
- A drama series adaptation of Natalie Baszile's novel 'Friends and Family' is in development.
- The series will explore themes of loyalty, class, and female friendships.
- Gina Prince-Bythewood and Mary J. Blige are attached to the project.
Universal Television is developing a drama series titled 'Good People,' adapted from Natalie Baszile's novel 'Friends and Family.' Marissa Jo Cerar is writing the adaptation, with Gina Prince-Bythewood slated to direct the potential pilot, and Mary J. Blige and Debra Martin Chase serving as executive producers.
The project secured rights to the novel in a competitive situation before its October 6 release. Set in Northern California, the narrative is inspired by Baszile's own life. It centers on Babs, a successful interior designer, and her old-money best friend, Nora. Their world is upended by an affair and a police incident involving Nora's adopted Black son, impacting both families.
Baszile's 'Friends and Family' is her follow-up to 'Queen Sugar,' which was adapted into an OWN series. Executive producers also include Reggie Rock Bythewood, Debra Martin Chase, and Mary J. Blige. Cerar, known for her work on 'Women of the Movement' and 'Black Cake,' also executive produces.
Prince-Bythewood, who previously collaborated with Cerar on 'Women of the Movement,' has directed films like 'The Old Guard' and 'The Woman King.' Chase, under her Martin Chase Productions first-look deal with Universal Television, has produced projects like 'Being Mary Tyler Moore' and 'The Equalizer.' Mary J. Blige, a Grammy-winning artist, is also attached to executive produce, having previously starred in 'Power Book II: Ghost.'
