After season four of VH1’s Basketball Wives caused controversy for scenes of bullying and even a cast member being slapped, most reality TV fans have been asking for a show that showcases women in a positive light. Well, their wish is somewhat coming true with Centric’s new docu-series From the Bottom Up.
Premiering January 16th at 10pm ET, From the Bottom Up follows five women who seemed to have it all…until they took a big fall. According to the press release, this six episode series “provides an unfettered view into their world and the organic chaos within their individual lives, tackling real, raw, gritty, emotional and honest issues from women who are smiling on the outside, but two minutes from dying on the inside.” Executive produced by Queen Latifah & Shakeme Compere of Flavor Unit and Nicci Gilbert(Brownstone, R&B Divas: Atlanta), From the Bottom Up stars actress Chrystale Wilson(the Player’s Club), singer Sara Stokes(Making the Band 2), former Detroit Mayorial Chief of Staff Christine Beatty, author Kim Smedly, and radio personality and actress Stacii Jae Johnson.
Even though the show focuses on these five strong black women “on the long road to redemption as they strive to change their lives, rebuild their families and live their dreams,” what’s a reality show without a bit of drama? From the multiple commercials and teasers, it’s pretty clear that there’s going to be some tension between some of the ladies—noticeably between Johnson, Smedly, and Wilson.
As a huge fan of Gilbert, I’m ecstatic to see her creation come to life and the cast is phenomenal. Ever since the disbandment of Da Band, I’ve always wondered whether Stokes would release more music since she is a fantastic singer. Despite the struggles she’s endured, I’m excited to see her make a comeback that will appropriately put the spotlight back on her. Being a fan of Wilson’s, I was excited to see her pop up as a client of Evelyn Braxton during an episode of WeTV’s Braxton Family Values and I’m even more excited to know more of her story in From the Bottom Up. As far as Beatty, Smedly, and Johnson, I’m eager to see their journey to redemption along with Stokes & Wilson and whether or not these women will make their way back to the top. Check out the teaser for From the Bottom Up below and make sure to watch the series premiere on January 16th at 10pm ET on Centric as well as BET.
Photo Credit: Centrictv.com/Centric TV/Twitter
