How ‘Kindred’ Became Must-Watch TV

In 1979, acclaimed science-fiction writer Octavia Butler published her groundbreaking novel “Kindred,” which explored themes of race, identity, and power through a time-traveling narrative that brought a black woman from the 20th century back to the antebellum South. Over four decades later, the story has been adapted into a must-watch TV series, captivating audiences with its powerful performances, gripping storyline, and timely commentary on race and history.

The adaptation, which premiered in September 2020 on the streaming platform FX on Hulu, follows the same basic premise as the book. Dana, a young Black woman living in 1970s California, finds herself inexplicably transported back in time to the plantation where her white ancestor, Rufus, is a slave owner. As she tries to navigate the dangerous and violent world of slavery, she must also confront her own identity and the way her family’s history has shaped her present.

One of the key strengths of the TV series is its cast, which features standout performances from Jurnee Smollett as Dana, Jonathan Majors as Rufus, and Aunjanue Ellis as Rufus’s mother. Smollett, in particular, brings a powerful emotional depth to the role, conveying both Dana’s strength and vulnerability as she grapples with the trauma of slavery and its ongoing legacy. Majors, meanwhile, infuses Rufus with a complex mix of charm and brutality, making him a compelling antagonist even as the audience grapples with his actions.

But beyond its talented cast, “Kindred” also succeeds in bringing Butler’s visionary storytelling to the screen. The series skillfully weaves together the past and present, exploring how the legacy of slavery continues to shape the experiences of Black Americans today. It also raises important questions about power dynamics and privilege, particularly in the way it contrasts Dana’s relative freedom as a modern-day Black woman with the brutal oppression faced by her ancestors.

Perhaps most strikingly, “Kindred” refuses to shy away from the brutal reality of slavery, depicting the violence and dehumanization that characterized the system in unflinching detail. At the same time, the series also finds moments of beauty and humanity amidst the darkness, highlighting the strength and resilience of enslaved people and the connections that can be forged even in the most trying of circumstances.

All of these elements have helped to make “Kindred” a must-watch TV series, resonating with audiences across generations and backgrounds. But the show’s success is also indicative of a larger shift in the entertainment industry, which has seen a growing appetite for stories that center on underrepresented perspectives and challenge traditional power structures.

As Hollywood continues to grapple with issues of representation and inclusion, it’s heartening to see shows like “Kindred” pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of storytelling and representation. By bringing Octavia Butler’s groundbreaking novel to the screen with such skill and nuance, the creators of “Kindred” have demonstrated the power of diverse storytelling to illuminate new truths and inspire audiences to action.

Ultimately, what makes “Kindred” such a must-watch TV series is its ability to speak to the complexities of the human experience, exploring themes of power, identity, and belonging in a way that feels both timeless and urgently relevant. As we continue to confront the legacies of racism and oppression in our society, “Kindred” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of reckoning with our past in order to build a better future.