The world of entertainment is growing to match the times, particularly with digital streaming changing how we watch and enjoy our favorite shows. With the convenience of viewing straight from a phone screen paired with the new trend of clip sharing on social media, a new market in the industry developed with the rise of the microseries.
Urban One was clever enough to get in on the action with the announcement of two original vertical microseries created for mobile viewing to air on BOSSIP’s TikTok.
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Both Power & Influence (seen above) and Foul Play will each include 20 episodes that average 90 seconds and expected to extend across Urban One’s multiplatform media ecosystem following its TikTok premiere. Power & Influence kicks things off beginning October 19 with a corporate thriller plot driven by AI deepfakes exposing hidden scandals at one of Atlanta’s most respected Black-owned advertising agencies. The cast includes Ivory Shields (Nappily Ever After), Tanazia Madan (Queen Sugar), Jay Jones (Lovecraft Country), De’Tuan Williams (Fear Lake Lanier), Ashley Brittney Silva (Love & Marriage: DC) and Donny Carrington (Beyond the Gates). Theries comes from the combined creativity of writer by Dreux Dougall of Lovecraft Country fame, director Jamal Simmons from Married at First Sight) and executive producer Ma’at Zachary.
Women’s basketball revenge thriller Foul Play is currently in production, bringing to life the directorial debut of former professional women’s basketball player and assistant coach, Ty Young. The series centers on a highly skilled military veteran and sports mom who seeks retribution against the corrupt coach, referee and player who conspired to injure her star point-guard daughter during a high-stakes tournament. Tanya Hoffler-Moore (Tyler Perry’s House of Payne) will write and executive produce, with co-direction and and co-production from Leon Lozano (All American: Homecoming) and women’s basketball players Ashley MacCalla and Sydney MacCalla.
“These microseries give brands an opportunity to connect authentically with our audiences through stories rooted in their culture and interests,” said Jeff Meza, Urban One’s EVP, Head of Branded Entertainment & Integrated Marketing. He also adds, “Partners can become part of those stories from the outset, with opportunities that extend across Urban One platforms.” That plan will include editorial support across iONE Digital properties like Hip-Hop Wired and MadameNoire, versions adapted for TV One, connected TV and free ad-supported streaming channels, plus promotion across Radio One stations, REACH Media syndicated shows and the Urban One Podcast Network.
Get the popcorn ready, and make sure to charge up your mobile devices!