Congratulations to Mary J. Blige for releasing her two new Lifetime original movies, “Mary J. Blige’s Real Love” and “Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman,” inspired by her biggest hits. Both films will air back-to-back this Saturday, with the premiere of Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman airing June 17th at 8p/7c.
The storytelling surrounding Kendra and Ben is authentic, compelling, and therapeutic for viewers, especially Black women who are exhausted from being considered strong individuals all the time. Kendra exclaims, “Sometimes being strong is just surrendering….” This quote is a testament to the vulnerability and growth that is uniquely present within these characters. And the chemistry between Kendra and Ben is off the charts!
In support of the presented content, Lifetime has partnered with Take Back The Night Foundation®, an international event and non-profit organization with the mission of ending all forms of sexual violence and supporting survivors in their healing journeys.
I highly recommend watching Mary J. Blige’s Real Love and Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman Saturday, June 17th on Lifetime starring Ajiona Alexus (Empire,13 Reasons Why), and Da’Vinchi (BMF, All American) with Princess Davis, Austin Anozie, Millan Tesfazgi, Shiraine Haas, Garfield Wilson, and Hamza Fouad rounding out the cast, as they portray the highs and lows of young Black love.
Synopsis: Mary J. Blige’s Real Love
Mary J. Blige’s Real Love follows 18-year-old Kendra (Alexus) as she sets off on her own for the first time at an HBCU in North Carolina. Attending on a scholarship, Kendra is determined to focus on school while balancing work study and keeping things professional with Ben (Da’Vinchi), her photo class partner. Despite disapproving parents, financial hardship, and even an unexpected pregnancy, Kendra and Ben find themselves falling hard for each other and ultimately learning the meaning of “Real Love.” Even when Kendra realizes that in order to pursue her dreams, she must leave Ben behind, it’s certain that their story isn’t over…
Synopsis: Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman
The story of Kendra and Ben continues in Mary J. Blige’s Strength of a Woman, jumping ahead more than 15 years. Now a successful photographer, Kendra finds herself in a failing marriage and must reckon with the decisions she made for the life she thought she wanted. When Ben unexpectedly comes back into her life, she is forced to a crisis point and must dig deep to find the strength to take control of her life and accept the love Ben may be offering again.
