Who doesn't love a feel good show?
Harlem has just dropped its second season on Prime Video and that means we get to follow our favorite gal pals as they live their beautifully chaotic lives.
Two of the show's leads, Grace Byers and Shoniqua Shandai, are standouts among the fans as they can always count on these ladies for a good laugh.
"We wanted the opportunity to continue delving into the stories of these women and to just see more of where they were gonna go to. We genuinely love this show. We love what we do. To have this continue was just a total joy," Byers tells PRIDE.
While the cast and crew may have been overjoyed to return to a new season, LGBTQ+ fans were also thrilled that the community would continue getting representation on the small screen. Byers' character, Quinn, is queer and enjoys a journey of self-discovery... and a lot of sex.
"My goal is that people will feel seen and that they will feel more empowered. [I hope] they will continue to stand in their own uniqueness and their own identity," Byers says.
Plus, Shandai loves that Harlem embodies sisterhood and that the show portrays friendships that turn into family.
"That's honestly the reason why I am here. My purpose is to just shine and show up and inspire other people to do it. You don't have to look a certain way, speak a certain way, or be from a certain neighborhood. If I could do it... gap tooth, curvy and all, why can't you? The further we can get people to use their voice to pursue their dreams, the better," Shandai says.
With the second season also premiering during Black History Month, both ladies are hoping the dynamics on screen can effectively entertain and educate the audience.
"It's very important to paint the narrative of Black joy, Black sisterhood, and acceptance and support. It's allowing for all of these conversations to happen. There's space for all of us," Shandai concludes.
Harlem is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video. To see the full interview with Grace Byers and Shoniqua Shandai, check out the video below.
