‘Harlem’ Series Finale: Grace Byers, Shoniqua Shandai on That Emotional Baby Shower Scene, Where Their Characters Land and Hopes for a Revival

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[This story contains major spoilers from the series finale of Harlem.]

In the final episode of Tracy Oliver’s show, Harlem, Tye (Jerrie Johnson), Camille (Meagan Good), Quinn (Grace Byers) and Angie (Shoniqua Shandai) each experienced unique forms of happiness in their personal journeys. The characters who were least expected to find love ended up doing so, while those who spent three seasons searching for their perfect match opted to prioritize themselves instead.

In the last episode of Harlem, each main character found their own kind of happiness. The ones who seemed unlikely to find love surprised us by finding it, and the ones who had been looking for ‘the one’ for three seasons decided to focus on themselves instead.

Angie and Mike’s (Luke Forbes) wedding didn’t happen because Angie ended their engagement due to their disagreements, particularly Mike’s unwillingness to back Angie’s acting career. However, Tye proposed to Eva (Gail Bean) unexpectedly, overcoming her apprehension about deep emotional connections. In contrast, Quinn declined Seth’s (Kofi Siriboe) proposal for a non-monogamous partnership, opting instead to consider single parenthood, possibly influenced by Camille, who welcomed a child and then rekindled her relationship with Ian (Tyler Lepley) in the final episode six scene, “Dear Harlem,” establishing the family Ian had always desired.

Shandai expresses to The Hollywood Reporter how playing a self-assured, radiant, and authentic character like Angie has helped her embrace herself more deeply and appreciate the aspects of herself she’s been striving to suppress in an effort to fit in. Angie inspires Shandai to speak up, share her music, and approach relationships differently. She is incredibly thankful for this valuable lesson that Angie has taught her.

In the conversation with THR, Shandai and Byers discuss the final episode of the series, reflecting on the conclusions of their character’s stories, while also expressing their wishes for the potential future resurrection of Harlem.

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How would you describe the feeling during the baby shower scene in episode five titled “Fear Factor”? It seemed incredibly touching given the approaching finale of the series. Can you share your experience filming that poignant moment?

JESSICA BYERS It was an emotional farewell for everyone involved. We were all tearing up and genuinely bidding each other goodbye. It seemed symbolic because our emotions mirrored those of our characters, but it also held a personal significance for us. For me, the experience carried additional weight due to my recent experiences as a new mother. I was touched by the support and camaraderie from my friends and fellow actresses during that time, making the moment even more poignant. In essence, both the event and our collective bond left an indelible impact on me.

SHONIQUA SHANDAI The experience was breathtakingly moving. It stirred emotions within me as I reflected on the past Shoniqua who lacked a sisterhood during her most challenging times, yet now has the comfort of knowing there are shoulders to lean on. Engaging in this scene deepened my bond with these women and enabled us to share more intimate moments. I realized that friends were always present, though I hadn’t let them be, nor accessed the most vulnerable aspects of myself. The baby shower scene, in particular, was a significant milestone signifying growth and pushing me to open up and allow others into my life.

Shoniqua, it seemed like your character’s tale was heading towards a wedding, but it ended in a split with Angie and Mike. Did you find the way things turned out between them unexpected?

Shoniqua wasn’t taken aback at all; Tracy is so insightful that it was clear to me what would transpire in season three even during season one. We had discussed it on set. “You’re going to encounter this man. He’ll be a narcissist… it’s going to unfold like this.” The genius of this, as an actress, is truly captivating because it enables us to delve deeper into the character development. Many sets have actors who are given scripts and don’t know what will happen the week before, but that’s not how Tracy Oliver operates. I’m deeply appreciative of her trust in us, her valuing our input, and most importantly, giving us the chance to truly mold our performances. If I hadn’t done this, perhaps I wouldn’t have grown so attached in season two, as I wanted it to be heart-wrenching. I wanted you to believe that things would work out. I wanted Angie to seem fully invested, making the eventual separation even more painful. So no, I wasn’t surprised, but I’m also incredibly proud of Angie for prioritizing herself and her first love. There will be a man who will accept you for all your complexities, who won’t ask you to diminish or shrink yourself or your family. I’m happy for my character for choosing herself and recognizing that she deserves the best.

Quinn opted for her own path and decided to part ways with Seth. What are your thoughts on the romantic outcome for Grace’s character, in your opinion?

It’s interesting how they keep joking about Quinn’s storyline with the executives often remarking, “If it were me…I might have reconsidered that decision, Quinn.” However, I feel that it’s not so much about what she didn’t choose but rather what she did choose, and I think that’s what truly matters. I believe this is a reflection of how we live our lives and should live our lives. People tend to focus more on the losses than the gains. When you say no to something, you’re essentially saying yes to something else. At the end of the day, whatever it is you’re choosing – whether it’s your time, your peace, or anything else – it’s crucial for you to remember what you’re affirming. In my opinion, that’s where we should admire Quinn. To finally make a decision without external influence from society, her mother, or anyone else, she is saying yes to this, and I think that’s worth celebrating about her.

Did Tracy discuss with you her initial plan for Quinn’s pregnancy storyline in season three, as she had intended it at first?

USER She made the correct choice, in my opinion. The storyline was fantastic, particularly focusing on her relationship with her mother and the development of their dynamic. It was also great to meet all members of Quinn’s family. There seemed to be an opportunity for Quinn to step into a maternal role due to her nurturing and caring nature. However, I felt Camille was the better choice as there are numerous aspects to explore, such as her fertility journey, potential termination decisions, and the impact on her relationship with Ian. With Camille, we can delve deeper into these themes, which is why I’m glad they chose her in the end – it just felt right.

Quinn was kind of rooting for Ian and Camille the entire series—

BYERS Kind of?

Okay, she was.

BYERS She needs them to be together! They’re her story, they’re her fantasy storybook love.

Were you, in real life, hoping Ian and Camille ended up together?

BYERS I mean, that’s what it was all about. I did. Did you not, Shoniqua?

SHANDAI I was over Ian and Camille. They are so toxic.

BYERS This is where we are like our characters in the series.

As a devoted fan, I’ve been reflecting on the series, and it feels like a carousel, a constant cycle. But here’s the thing: let them ride for a while, like watching Mr. Big evolve, then rejoin later. Give us six seasons first, and then Ian can return, reuniting them all. They needed to grow, to mature, just like real people would in such circumstances, if suddenly there’s a pregnancy or a baby. I hope they both rise to the challenge, showing courage and resilience, which they have done brilliantly, thanks to Tracy’s writing and the actors’ adaptability.

Given that the series has been terminated, have there been discussions about a Harlem film among fans? What’s your take on that idea?

SHANDAI Ask for it. Ask and it shall be given unto you.

Hey there! As a die-hard fan, I’m really rooting for more of the epic Harlem series. How about we start a petition and maybe even plan for some sequels? I can only imagine the thrill of Harlem One, Two, and Three! Let’s make it happen!

SHANDAI And then a spinoff later. Resuscitate us.

Regarding sequels, Grace, it’s been announced that Tracy is writing the screenplay for The Blackening 2. Are you excited or apprehensive about returning to that film’s universe?

OUR EXPERIENCE We had an amazing time on set for “The Blackening“. The actors were incredibly skilled and hilarious, yet they seemed to tire of us quite quickly! Every few minutes, they’d tell us, “Could you guys just focus on your work?” While we were off having a great time. I can’t wait to see the story that unfolds in “The Blackening 2“, and I’m eager to reconnect with the cast again, as well as collaborate with Tracy once more. All the best!

Shoniqua, is music your focus at the moment?

Sure thing!

SHANDAI Absolutely, I recently released a new track titled “Feel My Love,” and Shea William Vanderpoort, who directed all the musical episodes from Girls Trip for Harlem, directed the music video. Next up is my EP, just a little taste to get everyone excited!

Tracy said she might actually pursue the idea of Girls Trip the musical.

BYERS It needs to happen. Please, Broadway aficionados, let it happen.

SHANDAI And Shoniqua needs to star in it because I would love to.

BYERS Yes, [it should] happen with and only with Shoniqua.

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All three seasons of Harlem are currently streaming on Prime Video.

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2025-02-07 04:25