Mary J. Blige is back at Lifetime to executive produce two new original movies inspired by her biggest hits — “Real Love” and “Strength of a Woman.” The flicks will premiere on back-to-back Saturdays, beginning June 10 at 8 p.m.
The movies are headlined by Ajiona Alexus (Empire, 13 Reasons Why) and Da’Vinchi (BMF, All American) with Princess Davis, Austin Anozie, Shiraine Haas and Garfield Wilson rounding out the casts.
Blige serves as an executive producer on both original films through her own production banner, Blue Butterfly with Ashaunna K. Ayars and Q. Nicole Jackson as co-producers.
“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.”
“Strength of a Woman” will pick up where “Real Love” ends and jumps ahead 15 years in the process. Kendra, now a successful photographer, finds herself in a troubled 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 find the strength to take control of her life and accept the love Ben may be offering again.