Part 2 of Eric Jerome Dickey's "Friends and Lovers continues tonight on Lifetime!

Reel Perspectives

Novemebr 16, 2025

Eric Jerome Dickey, the Memphis native and one of the most influential and successful Black authors of our generation, was well beloved in the African American community. He carved out a niche for his creativity by skillfully navigating erotic thrillers, emotional dramas, and contemporary love stories in print literature. Even after his tragic death from cancer in 2021, his influence continues to resonate today.

The first adaptation of his best-selling "Friends and Lovers," originally published in 1997, has been brought to life in a two-part romantic drama, exclusively on Lifetime as part of the network's "Love of a Lifetime" series. This comes on the heels of the network's attempt to shift its focus toward more scripted programming. Part 1 of the highly anticipated film exploring themes of "friendship, passion, and forgiveness" premiered on Saturday, November 15, followed by part 2 on Sunday, November 16, at 8 pm EST.

On November 22, Toni Braxton will star in "He Wasn't Man Enough" alongside Essence Atkins and Yvette Nicole Brown as part of the "Love of a Lifetime" series.

With a screenplay by Aireka Muse, "Friends and Lovers" was directed by D'Angela Proctor and stars Naturi Naughton, RonReaco Lee, Kendrick Sampson, and Simone Missick. The film follows two best friends, Debra (Naughton), a Type A doctor, and Shelby (Missick), a free-spirited rule breaker, as their lives intertwine with those of Leonard (Sampson), a rising but struggling comedian, and Tyrese (Lee), his loyal best friend. As Debra and Leonard's love deepens, and Tyrese finds himself entangled with Shelby's unpredictable ways, the four navigate the challenges of modern relationships. When tragedy strikes the group, they are forced to rebuild—transforming their bond from friendship into chosen family.

Don't miss Part 2 of "Friends and Lovers" exclusively on Lifetime at 8 pm EST.

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