"Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted 2 Love" is just what the love doctor ordered

Reel Perspectives

January 31, 2026

Lifetime

The highly anticipated sequel to the film Tempted by Love is finally here and premieres tonight on Lifetime! Titled Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted 2 Love, the new film once again stars Garcelle Beauvais, who reprises her role as celebrated chef Ava as she continues her journey toward love and happiness.

The first film follows Eva, who is living in Europe but rushes back to the United States to care for her elderly aunt. When that family emergency pulls her back home to South Carolina, she's forced to slow down, reconnect with her roots, and face a version of herself she's been avoiding when a charismatic driver named Luke enters her life.

Hailed for its mature themes, in which the film openly explores love later in life, the age gap isn't treated as a gimmick but a broader conversation about desire, independence, and societal expectations. The film also leans into community and sisterhood with relatable performances by Lela Rochon, Loretta Devine, and Donna Biscoe.

Lifetime

In Tempted 2 Love, a part of Lifetime's "Winter Love of a Lifetime" romance and relationship-centered movie slate, Ava heads to Ireland who seems to have moved on from the heartbreak she suffered after encouraging Luke (Vaughn W. Hebron), 20 years her junior, to leave the country for culinary school. Now headlining a prestigious event in scenic Portugal, Ava is accompanied by her charming new boyfriend Ellis (Boris Kodjoe) … until fate stirs the pot. Luke, now a renowned international culinary school graduate, unexpectedly arrives with a new partner of his own, Lily (Mara Huf). As their paths cross in kitchens and castles, unresolved emotions simmer to the surface. Although both appear to have found partners who seem like perfect matches on paper, their attraction and love for each other will force them to decide once again what is best for their careers and relationship. Lela Rochon reprises her role as Ava's best friend, Deena.

Directed by Roger Bobb, with a screenplay by Tamara T. Gregory, executive producers include Terry McMillan, Garcelle Beauvais, D'Angela Proctor, Tamara T. Gregory, and Chet Fenster. Boris Kodjoe and Vaughn W. Hebron also serve as producers.

Tempted 2 Love is a heartfelt film and a worthy sequel to Tempted by Love. Anchored by Garcelle Beauvais, who delivers a performance filled with warmth, strength, and emotional depth, the film beautifully captures the essence of Terry McMillan's storytelling - romantic, honest, and deeply relatable, while exploring love, vulnerability, and second chances.

Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted 2 Love premieres Saturday, January 31 at 8/7c