Because it’s always a good time to binge brilliance when Black creatives are behind the lens

Black Hollywood is alive and well, and it’s giving main character energy on and off screen! If your “What should I watch?” group chat has been dry lately, let us put you on real quick. We’ve handpicked seven TV shows to stream this July — all backed by the undeniable magic of Black creatives running the show.

From high-stakes drama to otherworldly action, these picks aren’t just about representation — they’re about domination. Whether you’re curled up solo, on FaceTime with your cousin group chat, or hosting a cozy watch night with snacks and sangria, this list is it.

1. The Gilded Age – Season 3

 We love period pieces with corsets and control. Emmy-nominated Salli Richardson-Whitfield is once again behind the lens for this lavish period drama set during America’s post-Civil War boom. Think Downton Abbey but with robber barons and steel tycoons. And now, with Phylicia Rashad joining the cast in Season 3 alongside rising superstar Denée Benton? You already know we’re seated.

The Russells and Van Rhijns are also present and accounted for, climbing the social ladder with zero chill, determined to reshape New York society while shaking up the railroad industry. The tea is piping. The gowns are stunning. And the power moves are top tier television.

2. Washington Black

📺 Hulu
🎬 Executive Produced by: Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown is giving us history, heart, and high-stakes adventure in this Hulu original based on the award-winning novel by Esi Edugyan. Washington Black follows an 11-year-old boy named Wash, who escapes slavery in Barbados and goes on an epic globe-trotting journey filled with invention, discovery, and self-liberation.

If you’re into visually stunning storytelling, young Black genius, and narratives that reimagine Black freedom with beauty and depth — this one’s a must-watch. Honestly, just put it at the top of your queue.

3. The Old Guard 2

📺 Netflix
🎬 Directed by: Victoria Mahoney

Immortality never looked so fly. After Gina Prince-Bythewood served us action and heart in the first Old Guard, the sequel now comes directed by the unstoppable Victoria Mahoney — the first Black woman to direct a Star Wars project, by the way.

Starring Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Uma Thurman, The Old Guard 2 picks up where the original left off, with a diverse crew of immortal mercenaries trying to save humanity… again. Expect jaw-dropping fight scenes, high-octane storytelling, and more KiKi Layne being that girl.

4. Ironheart

📺 Disney+
🎬 Directed by: Ryan & Zinzi Coogler
📝 Created by: Chinaka Hodge

Set in the aftermath of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Ironheart introduces us to Riri Williams, a teenage tech prodigy from Chicago who crafts her own suit of armor à la Tony Stark. But this ain’t just science — it’s science and spirit.

With direction by Ryan & Zinzi Coogler and writing from Chinaka Hodge, the series explores magic, technology, and what it means to be young, gifted, and Black in the Marvel Universe. And yes — we’re ready for the merch, the memes, and the cosplay.

5. Government Cheese

📺 Apple TV+
🎬 Executive Produced by: David Oyelowo & Paul Hunter

Imagine a surrealist dramedy set in 1960s California, anchored by a family that is doing the most — and we mean that in the best way. Government Cheese follows Hampton Chambers (played by Oyelowo), a recently released man trying to put his family back together… while lowkey dragging them into even more chaos.

With a name like Government Cheese, you already know it’s going to give symbolism, satire, and soul. From the wardrobe to the cinematography to the messy but lovable family dynamics, it’s the offbeat drama you didn’t know you needed.

6. Forever

📺 Netflix
🎬 Created by: Mara Brock Akil

The legendary Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane, The Game) is back with Forever, a soulful coming-of-age love story based on Judy Blume’s iconic novel. This series follows two childhood best friends who reconnect as teens and fall deeply in love — cue the joy, the butterflies, and yes, the heartbreak.

With Akil’s signature style — honest, Black, and beautifully layered — Forever explores first love and the moments that shape us for life. Get ready for nostalgic vibes, romance, and a whole lot of feels.

7. The Residence

📺 Netflix
🎬 Produced by: Shonda Rhimes

Scandal meets Knives Out — and yes, it’s just as juicy as it sounds. From TV titan Shonda Rhimes, The Residence is a deliciously twisty murder mystery set inside the most exclusive home in America: the White House.

When a body turns up during a high-profile state dinner, an eccentric but brilliant detective must figure out whodunnit. Everyone’s a suspect — the guests, the staff, even the chef. Starring the incredible Uzo Aduba and D.C.’s own Edwina Findley, this one is equal parts chaos, clues, and clever commentary. Based on Kate Andersen Brower’s bestselling book, The Residence is pure scandalous fun — no Olivia Pope required.

Hollywood isn’t just changing — Black Hollywood is leading the charge. From big-budget superheroes to nuanced period dramas, these creators are crafting stories that reflect our history, future, and everything in between. So the next time you’re looking for something to stream, hit play on a show that celebrates our brilliance behind the scenes.

Which one are you watching first? Tag us @jointhemvemnt and tell us what Black brilliance you’re streaming this month. 🍿📺✨

Cover photo: 7 Must-Watch TV Shows by Black Hollywood This July/Photo credit: Netflix/Shondaland