Source: Black Love / Black Love
“Black Love” on OWN has been dishing out quality love content for a few years now, and this current season is no exception to the rule. MN spoke to the creators of “Black Love,” Codie & Tommy Oliver, about what viewers can expect from this season, and how their way of telling these stories has evolved.
MN: How will this season of “Black Love” differ from other seasons?
My husband and I started interviewing married couples when we were engaged and we had only been together (well, known each other) a year at the time. Since then, we have had 3 kids, built businesses, worked together in several capacities, and we’ve been married almost 5 years. As our relationship evolves, so do our interviews. We did our best to ask questions that we wanted to know as two people about to get married but I become more and more curious as we face new and different obstacles as the time passes. Our show will always grow with us.
MN: Why are the stories of “black love” still important to see?
Seeing people who look like you giving and receiving love in healthy ways, communicating their feelings, learning to get through challenging times simply doesn’t get any less valuable. Thanks to our couples’ vulnerability and bravery, viewers can always expect an honest perspective. Hopefully we can manage to keep it entertaining to watch.
Source: Black Love / Black Love
MN: Are there new topics in the upcoming episodes?
Yep, I’m so excited about the next set of Black Love episodes because we tackle new territory. We talk about respect in marriage (or lack thereof), the messages from our parents and grandparents, and what characteristics are required takes to truly make it the long haul.
MN: What do you hope the audience gains from watching these stories?
I hope that our audience gains a realistic perspective of relationships. We’ve learned that we come to married with all that we are – our bad habits and patters as well as our good ones. We hope Black Love shows people ways to get through the tough times that come and most importantly we hope it shows people a little of themselves and we believe that we can have the 10, 20, 30 – 70 year relationships some Black Love couples have.
MN: What would you say to single folks who watch the series and think, “this is cute, but not possible for someone like me?”
The thing about our show is that it isn’t just “cute.” We strive to show the good and the challenging. Each of us is flawed, layered, and filled with expectations. Long term partnership is possible for everyone who is willing to work on themselves. I always say that if you want something you cannot say it isn’t for you because if you do, it certainly won’t be. You have to be intentional. Whoever you are, if you want love, it can be yours – but it’s not always a walk in the park.
You can watch the upcoming season’s trailer here.
