Writer/Producer Lena Waithe has been making the rounds in Hollywood with her pilot for Twenties, a show about three black women, in their twenties, who are trying to get their shit together. One of them, like Waithe, is queer. It’s her need to tell stories about those of us in the middle, the ones that don’t see themselves in the same tired tropes people of color and queers are often relinquished to, that gives this project its fire.
I wrote it because it was a story I needed to tell. And usually when a writer sits down with that kind of fire in their belly it always strikes a chord with audiences. TWENTIES is the most personal script I’ve ever written and I don’t think it’s a surprise that it’s also gotten me the most attention. People like it when you tell the truth. And this is mine. But I also think it’s universal. Because who can’t relate to being in your twenties and sucking at life? It’s a magical time when you don’t have to have everything figured out. It’s a ten-year window when you’re free to have awkward sex, unhealthy friendships, and a boss you can’t stand.
Waithe is a producer for Dear White People, writer (How to Rock, Hello Cupid), and 2013 WGAW Writer Access Project Honoree. Apparently the networks either think there’s no audience for her show or that the show already exists. Really? If anyone knows this show doesn’t exist AND has an audience, it’s us. This prompted Waithe to arm herself with a pilot presentation, produced by Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit, to give interested parties a better feel for the show and its voice.
We all know that no one cares about women, queers, or people of color and so combining all of those things gives studios too many excuses to pass on this project. With a strong show of support, we can give them a strong reason not to. Fortunately, all you have to do in this case is watch for yourself and share. Lena’s call to action has been for you to watch Twenties and share it with 20 of your friends. Small movements like this one help further our goal of getting more of our voices on television so know your role and shut your mouth. Sorry, I was just The Rock for two seconds.
