Tyler Perry's 'Beauty in Black' Becomes Surprise Streaming Hit

The steamy drama reaches #2 on Netflix worldwide, earning 163M hours viewed in first month

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:04pm

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An extreme close-up of shattered glass and glittering sequins in dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamour and high-stakes drama of the 'Beauty in Black' series.The glitzy, high-fashion textures of 'Beauty in Black' reflect the series' addictive blend of soapy drama and luxurious style.Chicago Today

Whether it's Tyler Perry in a starring role or as a director and writer, his fans always show up. This past month, Perry's first Netflix series, 'Beauty in Black,' became an all-around streaming hit, reaching #2 worldwide and earning 163.3 million hours viewed in the three weeks after its Season 2, Part 2 release.

Why it matters

The impressive viewership numbers for 'Beauty in Black' demonstrate Perry's continued appeal and the demand for his signature brand of high-stakes, soapy drama centered on the Black experience. The series' success on Netflix also highlights the streaming platform's commitment to diverse storytelling and Tyler Perry's growing influence in the industry.

The details

Beauty in Black follows the powerful Bellarie family, founders of a successful hair-care dynasty with ties to an underground trafficking ring. In Season 2, Kimmie, a former exotic dancer, marries into the family and is appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer, threatening the inheritance of the Bellarie sons and their spouses. 'Kimmie wants to be seen as legitimate. She is done proving she belongs, and she's claiming her place,' said actress Taylor Polidore Williams.

  • Beauty in Black Season 2, Part 2 was released on March 19, 2026.
  • In its biggest week, the series reached 57.7 million hours and 4.2 million views.

The players

Kimmie

A former exotic dancer who marries into the powerful Bellarie family and is appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer of their hair-care dynasty.

Mallory Bellarie

The ruthless chairwoman of Beauty in Black and wife of one of the Bellarie sons, who is threatened by Kimmie's rise to power.

Tyler Perry

The prolific filmmaker, actor, and writer who created 'Beauty in Black' as his first TV series for Netflix.

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What they’re saying

“Kimmie wants to be seen as legitimate. She is done proving she belongs, and she's claiming her place.”

— Taylor Polidore Williams, Actress

What’s next

Netflix has already renewed 'Beauty in Black' for a third and final season, which is said to be 'coming soon.' In the upcoming episodes, Kimmie will continue to solidify her power within the Bellarie family's business.

The takeaway

The massive success of 'Beauty in Black' on Netflix underscores Tyler Perry's continued appeal and the demand for his signature brand of high-stakes, soapy drama centered on the Black experience. The series' renewal for a third season also highlights Netflix's commitment to diverse storytelling and Tyler Perry's growing influence in the industry.