20 TV Shows That Featured Plus-Size Black Women as Main Love Interests

For a long time, plus-size Black women on TV were mostly seen as funny side characters. Now, we’re starting to see them as romantic leads – complex, confident women with thriving careers and personal lives. Finally, creators are realizing these women deserve to be the stars of their own love stories, not just supporting characters. The shows below feature powerful performances of curvaceous Black women finding love and partnership on their own terms.

‘Survival of the Thickest’ (2023–)

Mavis Beaumont is starting over in New York City after a very public breakup. As a stylist, she’s focused on finding self-love and succeeding in her career, all while dating. Michelle Buteau shines as Mavis, portraying a confident and complex plus-size woman who isn’t willing to change who she is to fit anyone else’s expectations in the dating world.

‘The Parkers’ (1999–2004)

This upbeat sitcom follows Nikki Parker as she confidently navigates college and pursues her professor, with a lot of determination. While Professor Oglevee is hesitant at first, their connection drives the show’s central romance. Nikki is a memorable character known for her unwavering self-assurance, bold fashion choices, and unapologetic approach to love and life.

‘Living Single’ (1993–1998)

Khadijah James is the steady, reliable friend at the center of a group living in a Brooklyn brownstone. She’s a driven professional, running her own magazine while also navigating the ups and downs of dating. Her relationship with her childhood friend, Scooter, is considered one of the most beloved romances from nineties TV. Queen Latifah perfectly portrays Khadijah, bringing both strength and emotional depth to a character that changed how leading women were seen in sitcoms.

‘Glee’ (2009–2015)

Mercedes Jones is a talented singer who confidently pursues her place in the spotlight. As the series progresses, her relationship with Sam Evans becomes important, breaking down social barriers at school and showing her as a romantic lead. Importantly, the show lets her experience the ups and downs of love without centering her storyline around her weight.

‘Good Girls’ (2018–2021)

Ruby Hill starts committing crimes to afford her daughter’s healthcare and keep her family afloat. Her relationship with Stan is a remarkably supportive and believable marriage, often seen on TV. Together, they navigate difficult ethical choices and legal trouble, all while remaining deeply in love and respecting each other. Actress Retta brilliantly plays Ruby as a complex character – she’s both loving and fiercely protective of her family, and isn’t afraid to be tough when she needs to be.

‘Claws’ (2017–2022)

Desna Simms owns a nail salon, but it’s a cover for her criminal activities, all while she takes care of her brother who struggles with mental illness. The series follows her complicated love life with dangerous men, highlighting her need for a partner who’s as driven and powerful as she is. Niecy Nash delivers a captivating performance, showcasing Desna’s confidence and sexuality. The show embraces her strength and beauty through striking outfits and storylines that present her as a desirable and powerful figure.

‘Queens’ (2021–2022)

Hazel is trying to revive her music career after her once-popular hip-hop group broke up. She’s balancing this comeback with a challenging love life that forces her to re-evaluate what’s important. The show explores the specific challenges women in the music industry face as they get older and how they’re perceived. Throughout it all, Hazel fights for respect and learns to value herself, both professionally and personally.

‘First Wives Club’ (2019–)

After experiencing painful divorces, Hazel Rachelle and her friends lean on each other for support and rediscover their strength as a group. The series follows Hazel as she navigates life after divorce, including exploring new relationships with younger men. It portrays these women as confident, successful, and embracing their sexuality while redefining love and happiness on their own terms.

‘Empire’ (2015–2020)

Becky Williams quickly becomes a powerful executive at Empire Entertainment, establishing herself as a key player in the music world. The show also gives her compelling love stories, developing her character with the same depth and attention as its main characters. She ultimately finds lasting love and celebrates her personal journey with a beautiful wedding. Gabourey Sidibe skillfully portrays Becky, bringing humor and intelligence to a character who isn’t overshadowed by the show’s more dramatic storylines.

‘Harlem’ (2021–)

Angie is a lively and honest aspiring singer living in New York with a close group of friends. She’s confident when it comes to dating and won’t accept anything less than she deserves. The show portrays her relationships and intimate experiences openly and without making assumptions or relying on clichés. Angie’s character breaks the mold of the typical ‘fun’ and attractive friend often seen in comedies.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–)

Miranda Bailey is a highly respected and talented surgeon who rises to become Chief of Surgery. Her strong and loving marriage to Ben Warren offers her stability and happiness despite the demanding environment of the hospital. The show portrays her as a confident and sensual woman who successfully manages a challenging career and a rewarding personal life. Chandra Wilson’s portrayal has made Bailey an iconic character, demonstrating that you can be both a powerful leader and have a fulfilling romantic life.

‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’ (2009)

In Botswana, Precious Ramotswe starts her own detective agency, dedicated to helping people in her community with their problems and finding fairness. A tender romance blossoms between her and the considerate mechanic, Mr. JLB Matekoni, adding a heartwarming element to the story. The series also positively portrays Precious’s full figure as a symbol of health and beauty, reflecting cultural values. Actress Jill Scott beautifully embodies the character’s wisdom and loving nature.

‘Raven’s Home’ (2017–2023)

Raven Baxter is back, now a divorced mom of twins, and she’s teamed up with her best friend to raise their kids together. The show follows Raven as she gets back into dating, balances her psychic abilities, and pursues her dream of becoming a fashion designer. She handles the ups and downs of single motherhood with plenty of laughs, all while juggling new romantic possibilities. It keeps the funny, physical humor fans loved from the original series, but shows Raven growing into a strong and self-assured woman.

‘Tyler Perry’s House of Payne’ (2007–)

Ella Payne is the heart of her large, loving family, holding everyone together with her faith and understanding. Her marriage to Curtis Payne is the warm and funny center of the show, and their relationship provides both laughs and heartfelt moments. Throughout retirement and family ups and downs, they continue to support and love each other, with Cassi Davis brilliantly portraying a caring wife and mother who is cherished by her husband.

‘Meet the Browns’ (2009–2011)

Cora Simmons is often the calm, sensible one amidst her quirky father and family. Her romance with the school principal is a sweet and gradual storyline that unfolds over time. The character beautifully combines her strong faith with real, relatable emotions as she finds love. Tamela Mann provides a steady, comforting influence within the often-hilarious world of Tyler Perry’s stories.

‘The Ms. Pat Show’ (2021–)

Pat Carson moves her family to the suburbs of Indiana and tries to balance being a typical mom with her sharp, outspoken sense of humor. The show highlights her loving and supportive marriage to Terry, even though they sometimes clash with the values of their new neighbors. A key element of the sitcom is the genuine attraction Terry has for Pat, who is portrayed as a confident, plus-size woman. Their strong connection is the heart of the show and offers a relatable portrayal of a couple dedicated to their relationship.

‘Tyler Perry’s Sistas’ (2019–)

Danni King is an airline supervisor known for her direct and practical approach to life, especially with her close friends. She’s currently dating and often finds herself dealing with men who push her buttons. Danni is confident and physically imposing, naturally drawing attention wherever she goes. While she appears strong and assertive, her love life reveals a more sensitive side.

‘High Fidelity’ (2020)

Cherise is a record store worker who’s opinionated and knows a lot about music. The show follows her as she tries new things, both in her career and love life. It delves into her vulnerabilities and what she wants, but does so respectfully and without making fun of her. Da’Vine Joy Randolph plays Cherise with a confident and appealing energy, making her a believable and engaging romantic lead.

‘Shrill’ (2019–2021)

Fran is the protagonist’s supportive and devoted best friend and roommate, always pushing her to be more assertive. The show also delves into Fran’s own love life, showing her dating women and seeking meaningful relationships. She’s portrayed as confident and fashionable, and her romantic storylines are given as much weight as the main character’s. Lolly Adefope brings this character to life as someone self-assured and unwilling to tolerate mistreatment.

‘Moesha’ (1996–2001)

I absolutely loved watching Kim Parker’s journey! At first, she was just this fun, flirty girl always chasing after boys, and it was hilarious. But what was so great was seeing her grow and eventually get her own show where she was the one everyone was rooting for. It was really relatable – the show didn’t shy away from the awkwardness of high school dating and her struggles with feeling good about herself, but it did it with a lot of heart and humor. Countess Vaughn really brought Kim to life, and her determination to find love, even when things got tough, is what I remember most about her.

Please tell us which of these iconic characters you loved watching most in the comments.

2025-12-08 17:17