Urban One, Inc., the largest distributor of Black and Urban content, today announced two original vertical microseries created for mobile viewing: Power & Influence, a corporate thriller driven by AI deepfakes, Foul Play, a revenge thriller set in the world of women’s basketball.
Both microseries will premiere exclusively on BOSSIP’s TikTok account, (@BossipTok), with Power & Influence, debuting October 19, 2026. Each series will feature 20 episodes averaging 90 seconds, bringing stories centered on Black audiences and culture to a short, serialized format.
Built to Reach Audiences Across Urban One’s Multiplatform Media Ecosystem
Following their exclusive TikTok premier, the series are designed to extend across Urban One’s digital, television, streaming and audio platforms. The distribution and promotional strategy include:
Digital & Social: Editorial support across iONE Digital properties including HipHopWired and MadameNoire.
TV & Streaming: Versions adapted for TV One, connected TV, and free ad-supported streaming channels.
Audio: Promotion across Radio One stations, REACH Media syndicated shows, and the Urban One Podcast Network.
“We are creating stories specifically for the way our audiences watch today,” said Allison McGevna, iONE Digital’s Senior Vice President of Content. “From the writing to the pacing and production, these microseries are built for mobile viewing, with compelling characters and stories that keep viewers coming back.”
The slate brings together creative talent with credits including Lovecraft Country and Queen Sugar and marks the directorial debut of former professional women’s basketball player and assistant coach, Ty Young.
Power & Influence | Tagline: Every A.I. has a cost
Premiere: October 19, 2026
Plot: AI deepfakes expose hidden scandals at one of Atlanta’s most respected Black-owned advertising agencies, forcing CEO Nia Whitmore to keep her greatest threat close: Zuri Reynolds, a young creative strategist whose street ties could save the company—or destroy everything Nia has built.
Cast: Ivory Shields (Nappily Ever After), Tanazia Madan (Queen Sugar), Jay Jones (Lovecraft Country), De’Tuan Williams (Fear Lake Lanier), Ashley Brittney Silva (Love & Marriage: DC), Donny Carrington (Beyond the Gates).
Credits: Written by Dreux Dougall (Lovecraft Country), directed by Jamal Simmons (Married at First Sight), and executive produced by Ma’at Zachary (Chef Roble & Co.).
Title: Foul Play | Tagline: Be careful who you cross
Status: Currently in production
Plot: This genre-bending revenge thriller follows a highly skilled military veteran and sports mom seeking retribution against the corrupt coach, referee, and player who conspired to injure her star point-guard daughter during a high-stakes tournament.
Credits: Written and executive produced by Tanya Hoffler-Moore (Tyler Perry’s House of Payne), directed by Ty Young (assistant coach and former professional women’s basketball player), co-directed and co-produced by Leon Lozado (All American: Homecoming), and co-produced by Ashley MacCalla and Sydney MacCalla (women’s basketball players).
The slate combines premium production with storytellers who understand the audiences and culture at the heart of each series. It also creates opportunities for brands to integrate into original stories with reach across Urban One’s media portfolio.
“These microseries give brands an opportunity to connect authentically with our audiences through stories rooted in their culture and interests,” said Jeff Meza, Urban One’s EVP, Head of Branded Entertainment & Integrated Marketing. “Partners can become part of those stories from the outset, with opportunities that extend across Urban One platforms.”
For more information visit Bossip.com/microseries.
You must be logged in to post a comment.