Veteran actress and director Terri J. Vaughn is set to lead Tyler Perry’s upcoming Netflix comedy series, She The People, premiering later this year. The show marks a significant addition to Perry’s expanding partnership with Netflix and places Vaughn at the forefront of a timely political satire.
A Political Comedy with Real-World Resonance
In She The People, Vaughn portrays Antoinette Dunkerson, a newly elected Lieutenant Governor navigating the challenges of working under a condescending and sexist governor. The series explores Dunkerson’s efforts to balance political responsibilities with the complexities of her family’s public exposure. The storyline reflects contemporary issues faced by women in politics, offering both humor and insight.
The cast includes Jade Novah, Jo Marie Payton, Drew Olivia Tillman, Tré Boyd, and Dyon Brooks. Perry serves as the writer, director, and producer, with Vaughn also taking on an executive producer role alongside Niya Palmer and Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta. Bottoms’ political experience is expected to add depth to the series’ portrayal of governmental dynamics.
Vaughn’s Multifaceted Career
Terri J. Vaughn gained prominence with her role as Lovita Jenkins on The Steve Harvey Show, earning three NAACP Image Awards. Her career spans various television and film projects, including roles in Greenleaf, Insecure, and Daddy’s Little Girls. Beyond acting, Vaughn has directed and produced numerous projects through her company, Nina Holiday Entertainment, focusing on stories that highlight African American experiences.
In a 2020 initiative, Vaughn co-led efforts to pass Georgia’s House Resolution 1577, promoting diversity in the state’s film industry. She emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for minorities, stating, “Our mission has always been to create opportunities that allow women and minorities to participate in this incredible creative industry.”
She The People is anticipated to resonate with audiences seeking a blend of comedy and commentary on gender and politics. As Vaughn steps into this leading role, the series is poised to contribute meaningfully to conversations around representation and leadership in contemporary media.