Nationwide — Mara Brock Akil, creator and showrunner of the early 2000s TV sitcom Girlfriends, is working to bring the beloved series back as a feature film. She has the story and original cast ready, but she says the project needs a $50 million budget before moving forward.
Akil revealed during the July 2 episode of the podcast Question Everything that she is looking for funding to make the film happen. The planned movie would bring back Joan, Toni, Maya, and Lynn for a new story set in Los Angeles.
The original stars, Tracee Ellis Ross, Jill Marie Jones, Persia White, and Golden Brooks, are all open to returning, according to Blex Media. However, Akil said studios have shown interest but have not provided the financial support she believes the project requires.
“I need the money that I need, and if it’s not going to be there, I can’t keep knocking on every door,” Akil said. “I have to sort of move on. But when that money comes, or a new idea comes for a lesser amount, if I can’t do it right, why am I doing it?”
Akil compared the potential film to the cultural impact of Sex and the City, saying both shows created a strong connection with audiences. She said she does not want to rush the project or make something that does not meet the expectations of longtime fans.
Girlfriends aired for eight seasons on UPN from 2000 to 2007 before its sudden cancellation left the story unfinished. The show reached its 25th anniversary in 2025, and the original cast reunion in a Pattern Beauty commercial renewed interest among fans.
Akil has continued creating projects after Girlfriends, including The Game, Being Mary Jane, Love Is, and Forever. She also recently released her first novel, The Revelation of Dionne Daphne, and said she trusts the process while waiting for the right opportunity to make the film.