The Oprah Winfrey Network has ordered a new series from “Black Lightning”creators Mara Bock Akil and Salim Akil, the network announced on Tuesday.
The series, titled “Love Is ___,” draws inspiration from the couple’s real-life relationship to tell the story of a modern-day power couple. The Akils, who will create and executive produce the series through their Akil Productions banner, are the award-winning producers behind such shows as “Being Mary Jane,” “The Game” and “Girlfriends.”
According to the network, the blank space in the title is meant to be “interactive, active, a verb and open for definition.”
Brock Akil will serve as showrunner on the series, produced in association with Warner Horizon Scripted Television.
“I’ve dreamed of working with the Akils,” Oprah Winfrey said. “I’ve been a huge fan of their work since first viewing ‘Girlfriends.’ They know just how to hit the cultural nerve to make you think and laugh at the same time.”
“To have a partner that brings the attention to detail and sheer excellence that Oprah has built an empire on is an absolute dream come true for Salim and me,” Mara Brock Akil added.
“That, and it’s Oprah! ‘Love Is ___’ is not only a passion project, but is a personal one for us as well. We’re grateful to have her wholehearted support and magic touch behind this story.”