Tyler Perry's much-anticipated Beauty in Black has returned to Netflix, having released its final eight episodes on March 6, 2025, following the debut of the first half of the first season last October. Fans of the series are eager to see how the intertwining stories of the main characters, Kimmie and Mallory, evolve after the dramatic cliffhanger of the first part.
Set against the backdrop of Chicago's cosmetics industry, Beauty in Black tells the gripping tale of two women whose lives collide under tumultuous circumstances. Kimmie, portrayed by Taylor Polidore Williams, is a stripper ensnared within the web of deceit crafted by her criminal handlers, working tirelessly to pay off what she believes is her debt to society. On the flip side is Mallory, played by Crystle Stewart, who is part of the wealthy Bellaire family running the hair care empire linked to Kimmie's precarious world.
The story picks up where viewers left off, opening with the shocking reveal of Charles’ survival after his presumed death from a car explosion, which was mistaken as part of the family's sordid legacy. Meanwhile, Kimmie and Angel's frantic search for Kimmie’s missing sister leads to violence when Kimmie retaliates against Delinda, showcasing the brutal reality these characters face.
The reception of Beauty in Black has been polarizing. While the show managed to captivate certain audiences, it has also faced considerable criticism. An IMDB user lamented, "If I could rate it with zero, I would, giving how bad the series is. Terrible acting, poor dialogue, everything done in a completely amateurish way." This reflects the sentiment of many viewers who have taken to social media platforms, voicing their disappointment. The series currently holds only 52 percent approval from Rotten Tomatoes viewers, indicating its divisive impact among audiences.
Yet, not all feedback has been negative. Some fans have expressed their eagerness to see how the narrative plays out, claiming, "I finished this in 1 day. Not a big fan of his [Tyler Perry] shows but this one was entertaining. Not so sure why so many negative reviews. [...] Can't wait for the next 8 episodes!" Such comments highlight the show's ability to entertain, if not necessarily to win over critics.
Crystle Stewart’s performance as Mallory has garnered positive attention, showcasing her ability to inhabit the complex emotional state of her character deeply affected by familial and business pressures. The cast also includes familiar names such as Debbi Morgan and Richard Lawson, ensuring the production benefits from experienced talent.
On social media, excitement has swept across fans of the show. Comments like, "New episodes of Beauty in Black are out I am kicking and screaming rn," reveal the immediate joy many felt upon the release of the concluding episodes. Fans are ready to binge-watch the series, with one noting, "Can't wait to binge watch the second part of Beauty in Black tonight. I've been counting down the days," emphasizing the level of enthusiasm surrounding this release.
Yet, others remain more skeptical, with comments like, "This show is so toxic!" reflecting the more negative aspects of the show's portrayal of its characters and themes. Such responses suggest viewers are grappling with the moral complexity displayed throughout the series.
Key episodes of this season promise to explore themes of loyalty, deception, and the quest for power. With its mixture of drama, scandal, and visceral storytelling, Beauty in Black offers insights not only on the lives of the characters but also on broader social issues, such as the exploitation within the entertainment and fashion industries.
Despite the criticisms, Tyler Perry continues to carve out space for Black narratives on screen, highlighting issues often overlooked. After all, whether viewers appreciate or detest it, Beauty in Black reflects facets of life intertwined with ambition and the darkness of family legacies.
For those who enjoy dramatic escapism coupled with intense character arcs, tuning in to Beauty in Black could prove worthwhile. The series is available exclusively on Netflix, ready for existing subscribers to explore, binge, and discuss as it continues to lay bare the intersection of personal and professional turmoil.