‘Harlem’ Feels Like Watching The Intersection Of ‘Livin’ Single’ & ‘Girlfriends’
Harlem/IMDB
Growing up in a Black household meant I saw a plethora of ‘90s & early ‘2000s shows that helped shape how I viewed life, love, career, and, friendships. It’s also where I saw the many layers of Black women that revealed how multidimensional we can be. From high-powered lawyers to monumental creatives, shows like Livin’ Single & Girlfriends were proof that women who looked like those in my community deserved to have their stories told.
It’s no wonder Amazon Prime’s Harlem feels familiar and refreshing. Starring Meagan Good, Grace Byers, Jerrie Johnson, & Shoniqua Shondai, it’s a show that’s rooted in the sometimes unpredictable way life happens when we’re managing careers, relationships, & expectations. And if the title doesn’t give it away, Harlem is based in New York so you’re getting culture, fashion, and the unmistakable vibrant energy it’s known for.
Since Season 3 premieres this Thursday (January 23), here’s a look back at what the ladies of Harlem have been up to.
Warning: Spoilers ahead
A Mini Recap of Season 1
Harlem/IMDB
Season 1 introduces us to Camille (an adjunct professor), Tye (a technological genius), Quinn (a fashion designer), and Angie (a free-spirited singer). They seem to be confident at first, but it’s quickly revealed they’re dealing with different issues that cause insecurity.
Camille is thrown for a loop when her ex Ian comes back and her career is rattled by the a no-nonsense Dr. Elise Pruitt (Whoopi Goldberg). Tye keeps choosing a particular set of women who seem to be emotionally aloof which confuses her about what she’s looking for.
Angie & Quinn? Well they’re roommates which seems like a dream come true for besties, but has it’s hiccups. For one, Angie doesn’t have a job and continues to pass up opportunities so she can find the ‘perfect’ singing gig. And Quinn? Her business is struggling at best.
From demotions to the revelation that Tye’s married, Season 1 of Harlem shows how even the tightest bonds can face external and internal issues that threaten to severe them.
A Recap of Season 2
Harlem/IMDB
Instead of hitting the sophomore slump, Season 2 of Harlem picked up even more steam. At the beginning we see the following:
Camille’s mind is reeling from ‘spinning the block’ on Ian and deciding to quit teaching at Columbia University — two things she’s not sure she meant to do.
Quinn is figuring out what being queer means to her.
Tye’s on the wrong side of the internet as a cautionary tale in dating and her ex-husband is literally giving her a run for her money.
And Angie? She’s still trying to find the sweet spot in her singing career.
However, each of the ladies start to ride the sweet wave of making decisions that feel true to them. Even if it means ending things that felt like they were moving in the right direction or choosing to say yes to something new, Camille, Quinn, Tye, and Angie showed signs of maturity…
It’s just one of them will have to see how mature they are when Episode 8 ends with a pregnancy confirmation for one of them. I doubt Tye is pregnant so this leaves either Angie, Camille, or Quinn. We’ll have to wait and see whose fertility is in question in Season 3. Better stock up on popcorn!
