EXCLUSIVE: Black content distributor Urban One, Inc. is launching a pair of microdramas that will launch on the Bossip TikTok account.
Dreux Dougall, who has credits for Lovecraft Country and Tanya Hoffler-Moore (Tyler Perry’s House of Payne) are behind of corporate-set thriller Power & Influence and revenge drama Foul Play, respectively.
Each series will feature 20 episodes averaging 90 seconds, with Power & Influence debuting on October 19, 2026. Following their exclusive TikTok premieres, they will extend across Urban One’s digital, television, streaming and audio platforms such as on the TV One channel, connect TV sets and free ad-supported channels.
Power & Influence is currently in production. Logline reads: “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 comprises 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) and Donny Carrington (Beyond the Gates).
Dougall is the writer, with Jamal Simmons (Married at First Sight) the director and Ma’at Zachary (Chef Roble & Co.) the exec producer.
Foul Play, also in production, is billed as “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.”
Hoffler-Moore is the writer and exec producer, with former professional women’s basketball player Ty Young the director, Leon Lozado (All American: Homecoming) the co-producer and co-director, and former women’s basketballers Ashley MacCalla and Sydney MacCalla also co-producers.
“We are creating stories specifically for the way our audiences watch today,” said Allison McGevna, Senior Vice President of Content at Urban One’s digital division, iONE Digital. “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.”
“These microseries give brands an opportunity to connect authentically with our audiences through stories rooted in their culture and interests,” added 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.”