CW 2018Nafessa Williams and China Anne McClain star as sisters Anissa and Jennifer Pierce, respectively, in CW’s new superhero series Black Lightning.
This series, which premiered last month to stellar ratings, has quickly become a CW fan favorite. In addition to its popularity, Black Lightning represents something new — it is the first black superhero series on network television. Williams acknowledges the series’ historical achievement and says the show’s ability to touch on timely subjects like sexuality and social justice, makes her want to delve deeper as an person.
“We’re just digesting it and I think this show, if nothing else, has has made me want to tap into the activist inside of me,” Williams tells ABC Radio. “And how I can make a change, and not complain about things, but be a part of the change. How am I making history and being a part of the movement and pushing our culture forward?”
Her sisterly co-star concurs and adds that the show even has a significant meaning for Black History Month.
“It pays respects to all those people that paved the way for us to be able to do this right now,” McClain explains. “Like, it is the first African-American superhero family on network television, but a lot of stuff had to happen for us to get here, and Black History Month really represents those people who paved the way.”
A new episode of Black Lightning airs tonight, February 6, at 9 p.m. ET on The CW.
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