If you’re a soap opera fan, then you know that change in the daytime drama world happens slowly.
The greatest soap operas have been on the air for decades, and in many cases the world they depict today doesn’t look that different from the world they depicted 20 or 30 years ago.
But as CBS prepares for the historic premiere of Beyond the Gates, a new era is about to begin.
The show is the first new soap opera since 1999 and the first daytime drama with a predominantly black cast.
Earlier today, CBS announced some of the key cast members for Beyond the Gate , including legendary TV actor Clifton Davis (Madam Secretary, The Godfather of Harlem).
According to a press release, Davis will play “Vernon Dupree,” the Dupree family patriarch who is married to Anita and also Nicole Dupree Richardson Richardson and Dani Dupree.
“Vernon was a well-respected former senator who was gentle, humble, and generous with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Now retired, Vernon is at the forefront of the civil rights movement.
Joining the cast are:
“Gibra Hodges Plays Jacob Hawthorne, the husband of Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne and a robbery/homicide detective with the District of Columbia Police Department. Jacob was born into a law enforcement family.
“McManning Starring Bradley “Smitty” Smith, husband of Congressman Martin Richardson and father of teenagers Tyrell and Samantha. A former political journalist turned housewife, Smitty was a wonderful father who guided his children with warmth and humor.
“Jane Jacobs Starring Ashley Morgan, Naomi Hamilton-Hawthorne’s best friend and the only child of a young single mother.
“Ashley is a latchkey kid who’s never afraid to roll up her sleeves. She’s a nurse at Garland Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C., and has a temperament that’s perfect for her profession.
The aforementioned stars will join a talented cast that includes:
Tamara Tunney, Daphne Dupleix, Kara Mosley, Brendan Claybon, Timon Kyle Drait, Sean Freeman, Marquetta Go Ince, Maurice Johnson, Theresa Mann-Grant, Ronnie Rose Mantila, Ambir Mitchell, Colby Muhammad, and Ariel Prepetit.
“Beyond the Gates” has not yet announced a premiere date, but the show is expected to make its historic debut in early 2025.
We will notify you as new information becomes available.
Is it your turn, TV fanatic? Are you excited for the first new soap opera in 25 years?
Hit the comments section below to share your thoughts!
