For the Culture: Celebrating Black Love Stories on Screen
Ah, Black Love… That term has become colloquial shorthand for our favorite Black love stories in the media. When I started writing my dissertation over 10 years ago, analyzing Black love in films directed by Black women, I quickly realized the limited scope of research on and understanding of the dynamics of Black romantic relationships. Many often-criticized representations of Black love in the media, without acknowledging that these depictions are often reflective of the identity, trauma and cultural nuances that mainstream audiences often don’t understand. For Black audiences, our favorite on-screen couples are a glimpse of what could be or a reminder of the relationships in our lives that have shaped our understanding of love. So, in honor of Valentine’s Day and the culture, I’m highlighting some of my favorite Black love stories on mainstream television and film not just because they’ve given us some of our favorite storylines, but because they’ve expanded how audiences value and experience Black love.
Dawn & Eric Edwards in the Netflix series, Forever
So this couple is fairly new compared to some of the cult favorites in the Black community. Their relationship was marred by infidelity or disrespect; instead, it was rooted in mutual respect and care. Even in moments of disagreement, the Edwards navigated challenges together, never losing sight of their shared love.
Cultural impact: We very rarely see happy, functional, loving Black couples on screen free of the burden of trauma. This couple showed audiences that Black couples can have great careers, love their children and not have secret side babies.
Andrew & Rainbow Johnson in Black-ish
For eight seasons, viewers watched Dre and Bow raise five children, navigating raising Black children in a world where they may be the only ones. I enjoyed the light-heartedness of their work, but I also appreciated it when they tackled more serious topics, such as postpartum depression or a brief separation. This balance showed us that relationships can be challenging, but they can also be a whole lot of joy and laughter.
Cultural impact: Another relationship highlighting Black people’s success, commitment to their children, and each other. Seeing Rainbow as a mother and doctor strays from those persistent narratives of overworked and overwhelmed mothers, giving young viewers a glimpse of what it looks like to “have it all.” Note: Any mother living in 2026 knows that “having it all” is a lie – but it’s cool to see it work out well on television.
Claire & Cliff Huxtable in The Cosby Show
No Black love list is complete without mentioning Claire and Heathcliff Huxtable. The doctor and lawyer duo showed audiences that Black families and relationships are just like any other family. Over 40 years since its debut, The Cosby Show remains a timeless classic that resonates with all generations (thank you, TVOne, for the reruns!).
Cultural impact: While many viewers criticized The Cosby Show for not being a realistic depiction of Black families, it offered a sharp contrast to what audiences had come to expect from Black couples. Claire and Cliff became the norm, not just for Black audiences, but for all viewers.
Dwayne & Whitley Wayne, A Different World
Three words: The wedding episode. Dwayne and Whitley’s wedding will go down in Black television history. The drama. The suspense. The shock when Whitley yelled, “I do” to her ex-boyfriend, professing his love. It’s the ending that all fans of the show hoped for. Viewers watched them grow up on screen, working through career decisions, friendships and settling into a loving couple
Cultural impact: A Different World groundbreaking depiction of Black college life is cemented in Black television history. As the leading couple, Dwayne and Whitley gave audiences a roadmap to the possibilities of what HBCUs offer – love and lifelong friendships. Fingers crossed that the remake continues the legacy.
Gina and Martin Payne, in Martin
My favorite Black love television couple of all time. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their connection shaped a generation’s expectation of love. “You go, girl,” wasn’t just a compliment; it reinforced the adoration and respect Martin had for his girl. This comedic pairing showed audiences that Black love should be fun – if it ain’t, give it back.
Cultural impact: Most millennials can recite Martin episodes line by line. Martin and Gina’s relationship was the personification of 90s love on screen, thus shaping an entire generation’s views on love and relationships.
Dr. Brandale Mills Cox is a consort, mother and researcher about all things Black. She’s perpetually exhausted, but that doesn’t keep her from binging the latest television show. You can order her book, “Black Women Filmmakers and Black Love on Screen” here.