A sequel to the comedy-drama series Ally McBeal is reportedly in development, with plans for a black lead to carry the series. According to Deadline, the series is planned to be written and executive-produced by Karin Gist, and the plot will focus on a young black woman fresh out of law school joining the law firm from the original series. This young black woman will reportedly be the daughter of Ally McBeal’s D.A. roommate Renée Raddick, played by Lisa Nicole Carson in the original show. Golden Globe winner Calista Flockhart, who many young viewers may remember as Cat Grant on The CW’s Supergirl, is reportedly eyed to reprise her role as the show’s title character. However, nothing has been confirmed as of now.
Ally McBeal Sequel Series Brings In Black Lead
By bringing in a black lead, the Ally McBeal sequel appears to promote a progressive message for race respect and feminism. This is quite interesting, considering the love-hate relationship some feminists have with Ally McBeal. While the popular crime drama show does feature a woman working in a largely male-dominated field as a lawyer, Ally McBeal turns some people off for the character’s messiness. The character is frazzled, insecure, promiscuous, and is always seen in miniskirts. While these are traits that modern feminists often say they hate, Ally McBeal is still celebrated as a character who demonstrates what many women (and human beings in general) long for, namely connection, love, and a sense that they are moving towards success.
Regardless of what viewers today may think of the show, Ally McBeal remains an iconic show, and it even served as an inspiration for the Disney+ series She-Hulk. With that show and the new sequel series coming up, it’s clear that Ally McBeal’s influence is still strong.
