My time on Harlem has been transformative – both through the sisterhood we’ve built off-screen and through playing Angie, who loves herself so fiercely. In an era of social media highlight reels, I hope fans watching these women’s journeys learn that it’s human to make mistakes. Every time I see these characters fall and rise again, it reminds me that there’s beauty in the struggle. I hope it inspires people to be gentler with themselves and brave enough to chase those seemingly outlandish dreams – whether in love or career.
Dear Angie, Tye, Camille, and Quinn:
Hey Girls, Hey! Just here to show my girls some love. TV rarely gets it right when displaying the complexity and power of strong, positive Black female relationships, but you ladies will go down in history alongside the Khadijahs and Maxines, the Toni Childs and Joan Claytons, the Issa Dees and Molly Carters, and even Kim, Moesha, and Niecy. Y’all are legendary!
It’s disappointing to see this gem close out after only three seasons. Not only was I deeply invested, but there’s also a loyal fan base that has been rooting for you ladies to keep following your dreams, setting boundaries, discovering self-love, and knowing your worth. We all saw ourselves in one of you, and like any true girlfriend, we were ready to go to war for y’all every week as if this was real life! 😂 But for real — don’t ever come for my girls, like ever (lol)!
While we could unpack the much-needed conversation about why Black shows — created for us, by us, with purpose and intention — are so often short-lived on screen, I want to take this time to give my girls their flowers. The level of ‘we see each other’ that was present in every season and every episode was deeply felt.
The attention to detail was intentional — from Angie running down the block and every Black person following without question, to Camille’s baby getting a pair of Timbs as an infant, and even Tye being wary about who touches her hair (because we all know not just anyone can touch our hair!).
So here's my farewell but also see ya soon, because there's too much growth and love to explore.
Angie, Girl, thank you for being unapologetically you in every setting. For following your dreams, for grinding, for putting your foot down, and for never letting anyone belittle you or make you feel less than.
Tye, Boss Chick! With each and every season, you showed both personal and professional growth. Beyond that, to step out on faith, allowing your vulnerabilities to be present and shine through — because healing cannot begin without self-awareness. Tye, you gave the green light for us to be comfortable in our own skin.
Quinn, my hopeless romantic girlie! You taught us to prioritize self-love and self-care. You taught us to go after our dreams, no matter how many times we have to start from scratch. You taught us that love is worth waiting for and to never give up on it.
Most importantly, you taught us that our dreams of family are possible — no matter how they may look, And that we should never settle out of fear of the unknown.
Camille, my over-thinker, but also my ambitious sis! You demonstrated a go-get'em attitude when it came to your career — girl, you knew what you wanted and made sure that no limitations overpowered you. The fears of motherhood can be overwhelming, especially when the doubts of 'Am I good enough?' or 'Will I become my mother?' start to take over. But Miss Ma’am, you taught us that we are not on this journey alone — that family and community are all we need to weather any uncertainties.
Shows like Harlem are essential to teach society that Yes! we have layers upon layers and we are anything but common. We are extraordinary. We are magic. We are top-notch We are the blueprint.
We are not one-dimensional — so if you see us at our favorite brunch spot throwing back unlimited mimosas and then, in the next breath, being a boss babes please, don’t ask any questions. Just know it’s against our religion to answer any questions. 😂 IYKYK.
P.S. this is not the end... See you for the Harlem Movie?
[This article was written by Natasha Parker based on an exclusive quote provided by Shoniqua Shandai. The views and statements expressed are those of Shoniqua Shandai and have been crafted into this article with their input and approval.]
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