Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker tells the inspiring true story of Madam C.J. Walker, an African American entrepreneur who became one of the wealthiest self-made women in America. The series chronicles Walker's journey as she overcomes racism, sexism, and personal challenges to build her haircare empire. Octavia Spencer delivers a powerful performance as Madam C.J. Walker, bringing her determination and resilience to life. It is a story of perseverance, empowerment, and the pursuit of the American dream.

Raising Dion is a superhero drama that centers on a single mother raising her son, Dion, who possesses superpowers. As Dion learns to control his abilities, they must protect him from those who seek to exploit him. The series blends elements of science fiction, family drama, and social commentary, exploring themes of race, identity, and belonging. The performances are endearing, and the series offers a fresh take on the superhero genre. It's a heartwarming series that appeals to both kids and adults.

The Boondocks is an animated series that follows the Freeman family as they move from Chicago's South Side to the predominantly white suburb of Woodcrest. The show is known for its sharp social commentary, satirical humor, and distinctive animation style. Created by Aaron McGruder, the series tackles issues of race, politics, and culture with unflinching honesty. The show's characters, particularly Huey and Riley Freeman, are instantly recognizable. One interesting detail is that the series was originally a comic strip before being adapted into an animated show.

Dear White People is a satirical series that explores issues of race, identity, and social justice at a predominantly white Ivy League university. Based on the film of the same name, the series follows a group of Black students as they navigate the complexities of campus life and challenge the status quo. The show is witty, thought-provoking, and unafraid to tackle difficult conversations. One standout feature is its use of multiple perspectives, with each episode often focusing on a different character's point of view.

P-Valley is a drama series that explores the lives of the dancers at a strip club in the Mississippi Delta. The series offers a nuanced and empathetic look at the lives of these women, delving into their dreams, struggles, and relationships. Created by Katori Hall, the show is praised for its compelling characters, insightful writing, and atmosphere. The series is unapologetic in its portrayal of sexuality and female agency. One interesting detail is that the creator, Katori Hall, spent years researching and immersing herself in the world of Southern strip clubs to ensure the show's authenticity.

Barry Jenkins's The Underground Railroad is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful adaptation of Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. The series tells the story of Cora, a young enslaved woman who escapes a Georgia plantation and embarks on a perilous journey to freedom via the Underground Railroad, depicted as a literal railroad system. The series is haunting and beautiful, unflinchingly portraying the horrors of slavery while also highlighting the resilience and hope of those who fought for liberation. It's a challenging but essential viewing experience.

The Chi offers a raw and authentic look at life in Chicago's South Side. The series explores the interconnected lives of several characters as they navigate the challenges of poverty, violence, and systemic inequality. Created by Lena Waithe, the show is known for its realistic portrayal of the Black experience, with a focus on community and resilience. The series' strength lies in its ability to humanize complex characters and show the struggles and triumphs of everyday life. Fun fact: Lena Waithe drew inspiration from her own experiences growing up on the South Side of Chicago when creating the series.

Lovecraft Country is a horror series that blends the monsters of H.P. Lovecraft with the very real terrors of Jim Crow-era America. The series follows Atticus Freeman as he journeys across the United States in search of his missing father, confronting both supernatural creatures and the deeply ingrained racism of the 1950s. The show is visually stunning and features powerful performances from its cast. Fun fact: the series is based on the novel of the same name by Matt Ruff.

Ava DuVernay's When They See Us is a devastating and powerful miniseries that tells the true story of the Central Park Five. The series exposes the systemic racism and injustice that led to the wrongful conviction of five young Black and Latino boys. The performances are gut-wrenching, and DuVernay's direction is masterful, creating a deeply emotional and thought-provoking experience. The series won a Peabody Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. It is a crucial work of art that demands to be seen.

Issa Rae's Insecure is a raw, honest, and hilarious look at the lives of young Black women in Los Angeles. The series explores the complexities of friendship, love, and career aspirations with sharp wit and authenticity. The show's soundtrack is also a standout, featuring a killer mix of hip-hop, R&B, and indie artists. One of the series' strengths is its ability to delve into the nuances of modern relationships, making it relatable and engaging. Fun fact: Issa Rae initially gained recognition for her web series 'Awkward Black Girl' before creating 'Insecure'.

Before Will Smith was a global movie star, he was the Fresh Prince, bringing his Philly swagger to Bel-Air. This sitcom isn't just nostalgic; it's groundbreaking. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air tackled serious issues like race, class, and identity with humor and heart, all while delivering laugh-out-loud moments. The theme song alone is iconic. Did you know that many of the stories were inspired by Will Smith's real-life experiences? The show launched his career and remains a cultural touchstone for its witty writing and memorable characters.

Black-ish is a timely and relevant sitcom that tackles complex issues of race, identity, and social justice with humor and heart. The series follows the Johnsons, an upper-middle-class African-American family, as they navigate the challenges of maintaining their cultural identity in a predominantly white society. Created by Kenya Barris, the show's brilliance lies in its ability to spark conversations and explore diverse perspectives within the Black community. The cast, led by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, delivers outstanding performances. Fun fact: several episodes are inspired by Barris's own experiences raising his children.

Donald Glover's Atlanta isn't just a series; it's a cultural phenomenon. From its surreal humor to its unflinching look at race, class, and the music industry in Atlanta, it consistently breaks new ground. The writing is sharp, the acting is superb, and the direction is innovative. Episodes like 'Teddy Perkins' are instant classics, showcasing the show's ability to blend comedy and horror seamlessly. This series has redefined what television can be, offering both entertainment and profound social commentary.