By Edwin Freeman
Photos: Edwin Freeman
As a Black actor, producer, and director who has worked on acclaimed projects like Notorious and Luke Cage, I’ve seen firsthand the power of positive representation in film and television. In Notorious, I had the privilege of portraying radio personality Mister Cee, while in the Marvel/Netflix series Luke Cage, I brought Young Pop to life—characters that showcased the strength, resilience, and multidimensionality of Black men.
These roles, and the success of the projects overall, demonstrate the immense potential and audience demand for stories that depict Black people in a nuanced, empowering light. Notorious grossed over $51 million at the box office, while Luke Cage’s first season drew over 7 million viewers in its first month alone. These impressive numbers prove that when we see ourselves reflected authentically on screen, it resonates deeply with viewers and translates to real profits.
Major studios and networks should take note of the incredible financial success of titles like Notorious, Luke Cage, Power ($6.6 billion valuation), and Godfather of Harlem—the latter two executive produced by my childhood friends from Queens, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Markuann Smith. These projects have cultivated massive followings and shown that audiences are hungry for narratives that uplift Black voices and experiences.
By investing in more stories that portray Black characters as heroes, leaders, and complex human beings, the entertainment industry can tap into a lucrative market while also driving meaningful cultural change. The global consumer spending power of Black Americans hit $1.3 trillion in 2020. It’s a win-win scenario that benefits everyone involved.
I invite readers to stream my latest documentary “Beats & Lyrics,” currently available on Prime Video. This film delves into the essence of rap music and highlights the artistry and importance of hip-hop culture. It’s another example of the type of project that celebrates Black voices and stories in a thoughtful, engaging way.
Let’s continue to support and elevate content that showcases the beauty, resilience, and multifaceted nature of the Black experience. Together, we can shape an entertainment landscape that empowers and uplifts our community while also driving impressive profits for the industry.
