The Gates, First Black-Led Soap Opera in 35 Years, Promises 'a Fresh Perspective' on Daytime Genre

Mar. 15, 2025

Sheila Ducksworth.Photo:Earl Gibson III/Getty Images

Earl Gibson III/Getty Images

For the first time in 35 years, a soap opera will have a predominantly Black cast.

According to a release from CBS Studios and the NAACP, CBS’s possible upcoming daytime seriesThe Gateswill follow the lives of a wealthy Black family in a posh, gated community. PerThe Hollywood Reporter, the show is first to do so since the seriesGenerationsaired in 1989.

The Bold and The Beautiful.Courtesy of Sean Smith/The Bold and The Beautiful

Courtesy of Sean Smith/The Bold and The Beautiful

“The Gateswill be everything we love about daytime drama, from a new and fresh perspective,”  president of the CBS Studios NAACP venture Sheila Ducksworth said in a statement.

Culture and character will be at the forefront of the series, with an emphasis on Black experience, the statement continued. “This series will salute an audience that has been traditionally underserved, with the potential to be a groundbreaking moment for broadcast television. With multi-dimensional characters, juicy storylines and Black culture front and center,The Gateswill have impactful representation, one of the key touchstones of the venture,” Ducksworth added. “I’m excited to develop this project with CBS and P&G, two of the longest and most passionate champions of broadcast and daytime television, and the NAACP, whose enduring commitment to Black voices and artists is both powerful and inspiring.”

Passions.Joe Pugliese/NBC/Courtesy Everett Collection

Joe Pugliese/NBC/Courtesy Everett Collection

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No casting or premiere news has been announced forThe Gatesat this time.

source: people.com