As a Black woman who has spent my entire career trying to break into the entertainment industry and often finding myself as one of the few representation in a sea of white faces, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the strides that are being made in recent years towards diversifying the stories we tell on screen.
The story of Missing You, with its Black lead character and predominantly Black cast, is a testament to the power of representation and the impact it can have not only on those who see themselves reflected on screen but also on the broader audience. I am thrilled to be a part of this groundbreaking series and hope that it serves as a stepping stone for even more diverse stories to be told in the future.
But let me tell you, it’s not all roses and rainbows. As someone who has faced countless rejections and obstacles throughout my career, I can attest to the fact that there is still much work to be done. The industry is slowly but surely evolving, but we cannot rest on our laurels. We must continue pushing for change and demanding representation at every level of production.
And with that said, let me leave you with a little joke to lighten the mood: Why did the actor bring a mirror to auditions? To make sure they always had someone to talk to! Jokes aside, I’m excited to see where this journey takes us and hope that Missing You will inspire others to keep fighting for representation and diversity in entertainment.
Victoria Asare-Archer expresses her feelings about working on the upcoming Netflix series, Missing You, as “eager yet nerve-wracking.
Over the last several years, a popular thriller adapted from one of Coben’s top-selling books has been released on a major streaming platform every New Year’s Day, stirring up discussions on social media and creating a buzz with various theories and humorous responses based on memes.
For this latest iteration, “Missing You” consists of five captivating episodes and is brilliantly adapted for television by the talented Asare-Archer, who also holds the position of executive producer within the series.
Asare-Archer expresses that it was a fascinating prospect to feature a Black actress as the main character in a show where she truly takes center stage, during our conversation prior to the launch of ‘Missing You’.
The story revolves around Kat Donovan (played by Rosalind Eleazar). As she navigates, she accidentally discovers a dating app profile belonging to her former fiancé, Josh (Ashley Walters). This discovery not only surprises her but also sparks a quest for understanding regarding the circumstances surrounding her father’s demise.
Following a style characteristic of Coben’s series, the narrative is filled with unexpected turns, intricate characters, and significant glances that keep viewers on their toes until the very end. However, Asare-Archer acknowledges that one challenge in bringing Missing You to life was centering it around Kat.
Asare-Archer points out that this particular piece focused on an individual deeply immersed in a narrative, offering a rare chance to explore the multifaceted dimensions of a Black woman’s life.”
Or more informally:
“Asare-Archer highlights that this work delved into the life of one person engrossed in a story, giving us a unique glimpse into various aspects of a Black woman’s existence.
From the very first tryout, actress Eleazar, who plays Slow Horses’ character Kat, was “spellbinding.” According to Asare-Archer, she immediately grasped the richness of the character Kat. He stated, “Kat’s magic lies in her being so lively, so engaging, so powerful, so captivating, yet also incredibly vulnerable, messy, and reckless. To bring a character with such depth, especially a Black character, is quite intriguing and I believe quite uncommon.
Drawing inspiration from Shonda Rhimes, Asare-Archer acknowledges that she gained valuable insights from Rhimes’s work, which emphasized that it is perfectly acceptable for women to exhibit unconventional or passionate behaviors as well.
In my own journey as a writer, I have been criticized for portraying ‘perfect’ Black women characters. However, when one feels compelled to give voice to underrepresented communities, there is a weighty sense of responsibility and a desire to create characters that are inspiring and meaningful. My experiences and perspectives shape the stories I tell, striving to uplift and empower those who may find solace in seeing themselves reflected on the page.
Discussing Kerry Washington’s captivating lead performance as Olivia Pope in Scandal, a character who undeniably made some intriguing decisions, Asare-Archer points out that people are still discussing her role ten years after the show first aired.
The essence of my role is to create compelling dramas, and if I aim to provide Black actresses with performances they’ll reflect on for a decade, it necessitates crafting complex, multifaceted characters who embody a mix of flaws, brilliance, and intrigue – just like any other character.
During the premiere of Missing You’s first episode, Asare-Archer praised the leading actors in the new series as “a roster of Black achievement” – jokingly mentioning Richard Armitage too – and while it is becoming increasingly common for a highly anticipated Netflix thriller to feature a Black cast, the fresh show and its acknowledgement of Black culture will be a delightful addition to viewers’ Netflix queues.
According to Asare-Archer, there wasn’t a need for discussion about making the show and featuring Black actors and actresses in leading roles because it was simply assumed. She explains that she doesn’t recall having a conversation about her intentions as it was already understood that a Black actress would be cast.
She goes on to say: “I’ve collaborated with Nicola [Shindler] and the crew previously, which is why from the initial script, Kat was portrayed as a Black woman. The unique aspect of Quay Street is that this decision automatically expands to other characters – her friends and family will also be Black. By choosing a Black writer for the story, we’re essentially creating an entire world centered around this character.
In essence, assigning a person capable of making autonomous creative decisions streamlined the entire process significantly. It went smoothly without any major issues or complications.
As a lifelong fan of Harlan Coben’s gripping and intricate series, I can attest to their international success and appeal. What makes these books truly special is that many actors themselves have become ardent admirers, making it a joy for the author when reaching out for cast members. The response is often an immediate “yes” – such is the allure of Coben’s stories. However, don’t be fooled by the familiar faces you’ll see in these productions. You may think you know what to expect from your favorite actors, but they will surprise you with their unexpected and brilliant performances in roles far removed from their usual comfort zone.
Asare-Archer notes that what makes Harlan’s shows successful is the audience’s faith in the quality of the roles, believing they are portraying intriguing characters engaged in fascinating activities. He adds that even when a role is different or unusual for an actor, it harmonizes well with the storyline.
In Missing You, you might not recognize Ashley Walters or Lenny Henry in their roles because they have stepped out of their usual comfort zones to play characters that may surprise the audience. Asare-Archer, the producer, acknowledges this by saying that it was fortunate that many cast members were open to tackling unfamiliar roles.
As a writer who identifies as Black, it’s truly remarkable to have the opportunity to provide diverse roles for fellow Black actors, allowing them to showcase their talent beyond typical stereotypes. Instead of being confined to a single type of character or performance, they’re able to shine in various aspects and employ unique expressions. It’s fascinating to ponder why someone as talented as Ashley Walters hasn’t been cast in a romantic series before – that’s the ideal we aim for: revealing hitherto unseen dimensions of these actors.
As someone who has spent years in the entertainment industry, I find it truly remarkable when we see a plethora of Black talent thriving within it. It’s incredibly inspiring to witness the opportunities that arise when these talented individuals are given the chance to showcase their versatility.
One particularly exciting trend I’ve noticed is taking an actor we admire and giving them a completely different role, allowing them to explore new creative territories and enjoy the same level of freedom as their peers. This not only benefits the actor by expanding their resume but also enriches the viewing experience for audiences who get to see fresh perspectives on familiar faces.
This approach not only showcases the immense talent within our Black community but also paves the way for more diverse roles and stories to be told, ultimately making the industry as a whole more inclusive and vibrant.
With “Missing You,” Asare-Archer had the opportunity to incorporate scenes such as Henry and Walters performing the Candy dance, along with some of the show’s heartwarming moments between Kat’s mother Odette (played by Brigid Zengeni) and her friends directly into the script.
Asare-Archer explains, “Many folks find these instances peculiar since they’re not common, yet for me, they seem quite ordinary.
In our stories, we never explicitly define the ethnicity of our characters; instead, they carry a blend of Caribbean and West African ancestry within the family. However, certain everyday moments, such as the music played or actions taken, resonate deeply if you’re African-American. These elements felt like a natural fit in my storytelling process, becoming an integral part of the narrative without requiring explicit explanation.
As someone who has spent a significant portion of my life immersed in diverse cultural landscapes and collaborating with creatives from various backgrounds, I’ve come to appreciate the unique perspectives they bring to a project. It’s easy for me to take this specificity for granted, but when I reflect on the absence of such diversity in projects written by those who haven’t experienced different communities, it becomes evident that their voices are crucial in shaping a more inclusive narrative.
Born in London with Ghanaian roots, Asare-Archer expresses her experience working on Missing You as “wonderful,” stating that there were no uncomfortable discussions about hiring specific individuals; instead, it was naturally assumed that the team for the Netflix series would be as racially diverse as feasible. She felt fully supported throughout the process, which she found incredibly thrilling. If you’re not alone in a room, she believes, things become significantly easier.
Currently, many discussions revolving around television programming focus on who is given the opportunity to narrate stories during prime time. Asare-Archer emphasizes that it’s crucial not only for genuine storytelling but also for fostering a diverse range of perspectives across the whole production process, to have Black or marginalized writers involved.
In my opinion, I believe a significant portion of diversity in media may stem from having authors who are Black or come from marginalized communities. It’s challenging to maintain consistency when you have a main character of color but struggle to reflect that diversity throughout the rest of the cast and behind-the-scenes storytelling.
If a Black author or someone with a unique perspective is involved in crucial decision-making processes, I believe this significantly influences the direction taken over the following four years.
In my opinion, it’s crucial to invest heavily in authors whenever we can. Such investment seems to have a substantial impact on every other facet of the production process in a truly significant manner.
Skipping the scene where Henry and Walters performed their Candy dance, and not explicitly mentioning it in the script might have led to an amusing mishap. However, Asare-Archer explains that due to the familiarity of the crew and cast, everyone would understand what was happening without needing explicit instructions.
It seems that focusing on increasing the team size by hiring individuals in various roles alleviates the strain, making discussions feel more organic, effortless, and tailored to the specific community.
In the case of Asare-Archer, it’s inevitable that they will encounter underrepresented talent within their crew or cast when the heads of department come from marginalized communities as well.
“Having a Black actress or actor changes the overall cast diversity, just as having a Black or brown director affects the crew composition. It’s all about recognizing the significant roles. Kudos to Quay Street for being open to making such choices and understanding that if they hire a Black writer, I will transform the entire show accordingly.
As a seasoned professional in the entertainment industry, I strongly believe that empowering production companies with decision-making authority can greatly benefit the overall quality and diversity of programming. It is essential for broadcasters to have faith in the expertise of these companies when it comes to casting roles, as their experience and insights often lead to more informed decisions.
In my years in this field, I’ve seen firsthand how a single recommendation from someone like Nicola Shindler can make all the difference. When she confidently states that a particular individual is the right fit for a role, there should be no question or hesitation among broadcasters. This approach not only makes it easier for them to get behind a project but also encourages more diversity in casting and programming overall.
I strongly advocate for a shift towards giving production companies greater power to make decisions about their content, as I firmly believe that this change would lead to a more vibrant and inclusive entertainment landscape.
What are Asare-Archer’s thoughts on representation within the TV industry as it evolves in the future?
Based on my personal experiences and observations, I believe there can be two sides to every issue. Currently, it appears that the industry is facing significant challenges, and from what I’ve seen and heard, things are tough. The statistics also paint a grim picture, particularly for marginalized communities who seem to be bearing the brunt of these hardships. It’s crucial we work together to address these issues and strive for positive change.
In light of what’s been said, I must admit I’m quite optimistic right now. The pool of Black talent seems more abundant than ever before. We’re fortunate to have an exceptional group of Black writers, directors, and actresses who are pushing boundaries in ways we haven’t experienced previously. This is largely due to the significant number of individuals with impressive resumes, many of whom have been working in this industry for over a decade. Their dedication and contributions have truly made a mark, and here we are.
As a seasoned professional in the broadcasting industry, I have seen both the struggles and triumphs of many talented individuals trying to break into this competitive field. On one hand, I am encouraged by the positive developments happening for those already established in the industry, but on the other, I am concerned about the challenges faced by newcomers.
The industry has always been tough, but it seems particularly difficult at the moment due to a variety of factors such as the rapid technological changes and increased competition. It can be disheartening to see so many talented individuals struggling to find their place in this fast-paced world. However, I remain optimistic about the potential for positive change and growth for those who are persistent and resourceful enough to navigate these challenges.
In my own journey, I’ve learned that perseverance, adaptability, and a strong network of support have been key to success in this industry. I believe that by supporting and mentoring newcomers, we can help them overcome the obstacles they face and ultimately create a more vibrant and diverse broadcasting community.
In conclusion, while there are certainly challenges ahead for those trying to break into the industry, I remain hopeful for the future of broadcasting and believe that with determination, resilience, and a supportive network, anyone can succeed in this exciting and dynamic field.
Over the last few years, we’ve discussed works like Dreaming Whilst Black, Mood, Black Ops, Boarders, Queenie, and Mr Loverman. Each one tells a unique story that showcases the rich diversity of Black experiences. Asare-Archer wonders if production companies are nurturing a diverse pool of talent, considering how many other series these writers might have created before being commissioned for these projects.
Despite this, television has been quite daring lately, as Asare-Archer points out, and he emphasizes that such risk-taking should persist.
Or:
Recently, TV has shown a lot of courage, according to Asare-Archer, and it’s important for this trend to carry on.
Or:
As Asare-Archer notes, television has been quite bold lately, and he stresses the importance of keeping up this daring approach.
In a challenging industry landscape, I’ve noticed that folks are gravitating towards established names and familiar formats for their entertainment. It seems to me that it’s less about the quantity of previous works and more about whether fresh voices and unique perspectives can still break through the norm.
Despite being recognized for his role in Apple TV+’s Slow Horses, Asare-Archer openly expresses his aspirations that the leading role in Missing You will further advance his career even more.
I genuinely hope that this moment is significant for Rosalind, as I firmly believe she deserves a spot in every prime-time television series. Her past accomplishments have been impressive, but I’m eager to see her tackle the roles she was born to excel in at present.
At present, the bench is brimming with talent, and it’s evident that these individuals are showcasing their exceptional abilities. Consequently, it falls upon broadcasters and commissioners to recognize and support this existing talent, as we can see that stars like Roz are currently emerging in the scene.
The show “Missing You” seems to put Kat through quite a lot, I share with Asare-Archer, concluding with an ending reminiscent of a Coben novel, complete with unexpected plot twists and heartfelt emotional scenes as well.
As a long-time fan of the show, I must say that one particularly moving scene in the finale stands out to me every time I rewatch it – the emotional encounter between Kat and Parker (Cyril Nri). Being someone who appreciates subtlety and depth in storytelling, this scene resonates deeply with me. Every time I watch it, I can’t help but feel a lump form in my throat as the raw emotions on both characters’ faces are so beautifully portrayed. The way Kat’s eyes well up with tears while Parker offers her comforting words is truly heart-wrenching and reminds me of the complexities and challenges that life often throws at us. It’s scenes like these that make great television, and I find myself tearing up every time I witness it, just as Asare-Archer does.
Alongside finding it hard to accept that Nri hasn’t starred in his own series throughout his impressive acting career, Asare-Archer emphasizes that this particular scene underscores the fact that Missing You centers around “emotions and those fleeting instances.” She adds that after watching this scene, there are no clear-cut heroes or villains; instead, it’s a heart-wrenching experience with no clear winner or right words spoken.
Fundamentally, the show revolves around the relationship between parents and their offspring, according to Asare-Archer. “Regardless of age, children carry a unique respect for their parents, and recognizing their human nature, including imperfections, can be quite challenging.
Personally speaking, penning the climactic episode of “Missing You” turned out to be an unexpectedly smooth and swift process for me, Asare-Archer, due to the raw and unadulterated feelings that permeated it.
In an interview, Asare-Archer mentions that the emotional climax between Kat and Josh in the final scene closely mirrors Coben’s original book, which the author felt strongly about maintaining. The story doesn’t offer a tidy resolution, and while the head writer has personal ideas on what might have transpired off-screen, she acknowledges that ending the series with that poignant note was essential.
Reflecting on my personal journey, I found that moments of uncertainty have always been significant and intriguing. They represent a crossroads where choices are to be made, yet there is no clear-cut answer about what lies ahead. Such ambiguity holds an allure that draws me in, as it mirrors the unpredictability of life itself. It’s these unclear moments that make us question our decisions and challenge our beliefs, ultimately shaping who we become. Leaving a story at such a point, where the outcome is uncertain, can create a powerful impact and spark curiosity within the reader, much like it does in my own experiences.
Just like an engaging thriller leaves audiences discussing its climax, this production will undoubtedly spark conversation due to the impressive acting of all key players. Regardless of viewer opinions, Asare-Archer expresses nothing but pride for the work her team has created.
This production boasts an amazing cast and storyline, and I’m incredibly proud of our dedicated team behind the scenes. Our crew truly outdid themselves. It’s a significant achievement to have a show of this magnitude airing on New Year’s Day with a focus on Black voices. I’m genuinely thrilled about it! I hope the audience will connect with it and tune in.
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2025-01-01 13:07