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Lifetime used its Upfront presentation to make a clear statement about where it is headed next. The network unveiled major talent deals with Queen Latifah and Taraji P Henson, introduced its first microdrama project executive produced by Taye Diggs, and revealed a new group of original movies under its Love of a Lifetime banner along with a powerful standalone film based on a true story.
Queen Latifah and Taraji P Henson are officially joining Lifetime’s roster of creative partners, which already includes Mary J Blige, Toni Braxton, and Robin Roberts. Queen Latifah has signed on to executive produce three new Lifetime original movies through her production company Flavor Unit Entertainment alongside her longtime producing partner Shakim Compere. The projects mark a continuation of her relationship with the network and further position her as a driving force behind female centered storytelling.
Taraji P Henson will executive produce two original films through her company TPH Entertainment in partnership with Fox Entertainment Studios. Production will be overseen by her head of production and development Jamila Jordan Theus. While specific story details have not yet been announced, the deal reinforces Lifetime’s focus on working with established actresses who are building strong producing careers behind the camera.
Elaine Frontain Bryant, Executive Vice President and Head of Programming for A and E, Lifetime and LMN, said both women share the network’s passion for telling powerful stories about women and have helped shape its legacy with culturally resonant projects. Their return signals Lifetime’s ongoing commitment to bold female driven films.
In a notable first, Lifetime is also stepping into the vertical storytelling space with Tides of Temptation, a premium microdrama connected to the upcoming Love of a Lifetime movie Terry McMillan Presents Paradise with You. The microdrama is executive produced by Taye Diggs along with Autumn Federici and Shelby Stone. Creator and actor Q Stenline also known as SwagBoyQ stars alongside Troy Brookins, Mea Wilkerson and David John Craig.