Tyler Perry’s first comedy for Netflix, She the People, follows newly elected lieutenant governor Antoinette Dunkerson (Terri J. Vaughn) as she navigates sexist politicians, meddling advisors, and a family suddenly in the spotlight.
Split into two eight-episode parts, the series drops Part 1 on May 22, 2025, and Part 2 on August 14. Here’s your complete guide to Tyler Perry’s She the People—from trailer highlights to cast, creative team, and release details.
1. Plot Overview
She the People centers on Antoinette Dunkerson, a savvy politician who campaigns on integrity and real change. After her triumphant election, she quickly learns that governing is far more complicated than door-knocking ever was.
Tasked with serving under a condescending governor while keeping her family—husband Michael Davies (Karon Riley) and daughters Lola (Drew Olivia Tillman) and Latoya Farrah Dunkerson (Jade Novah)—in line, Antoinette must balance fierce ambition with the realities of Washington politics and public scrutiny.
2. First Look: The Trailer
The official She the People trailer introduces Antoinette’s tight-rope act: firing crooked appointees one moment, soothing scandal-chasing reporters the next. Trailer highlights include:
- Sharp one-liners about being a Black woman in politics
- Glimpses of tense meetings with her sexist governor
- Family moments showing Antoinette’s warmth and humor at home
Watch the trailer above to see how Tyler Perry’s She the People blends political satire with heart.
3. Cast and Characters
- Terri J. Vaughn as Antoinette Dunkerson: The newly minted lieutenant governor learning Washington’s ropes.
- Karon Riley as Michael Davies: Antoinette’s supportive husband, adjusting to life in the political spotlight.
- Jade Novah as Latoya Farrah Dunkerson: The fashion-savvy eldest daughter.
- Drew Olivia Tillman as Lola Dunkerson: The precocious younger daughter.
- Tré Boyd as Titus Dunkerson: Antoinette’s wise mother, Cleo Dunkerson (Jo Marie Payton); her grounded presence in the family mix.
- Dyon Brooks as Basil Henderson: The governor’s opportunistic chief of staff.
- Robert Craighead as Governor Irwin Harper: The sexist, condescending incumbent.
Several guest stars from Tyler Perry Studios join in recurring roles, adding familiar faces to the Netflix roster.
4. Creative Team and Production
- Creator/Writer/Director/Producer: Tyler Perry
- Co-creator: Niya Palmer
- Executive Producers: Keisha Lance Bottoms (former Atlanta mayor and Biden adviser), Terri J. Vaughn, and Niya Palmer
- Producers: Angi Bones, Tony L. Strickland (Tyler Perry Studios)
This marks the second installment of Perry’s multi-year first-look deal with Netflix—following Beauty in Black—and underscores his expanding role as a TV comedy auteur on the streamer.
5. Release Schedule
- Part 1 (Episodes 1–8): May 22, 2025
- Part 2 (Episodes 9–16): August 14, 2025
Splitting the season allows buzz to build organically, giving audiences time to discuss plot twists and character arcs before the final batch drops.
6. Why She the People Matters
- Political Satire: Offers a rare, comedic glimpse into Black female leadership in state politics.
- Family Dynamics: Balances sharp humor with heartfelt family moments, a Perry hallmark.
- Social Insight: Addressing sexism, media spin, and community expectations with wit and warmth.
- Star Power: Anchored by Terri J. Vaughn, whose dramatic range grounds the show’s comedic high points.
7. How to Watch
- Log in to Netflix US on May 22.
- Search “She the People” or find it under “New Releases.”
- Add to “My List” to get notified when each part arrives.
- Invite friends for a watch-party—political humor is best enjoyed together.
8. Looking Ahead to Part 2
After Part 1’s cliffhangers, expect deeper intrigue: scandal investigations, family secrets exposed, and Antoinette forging unlikely alliances. Part 2’s August release promises to answer burning questions while setting the stage for a potential Season 2.
Will you be tuning in on May 22? Share which cast member or political twist you’re most excited to see in Tyler Perry’s She the People below!
