Watch Roots: The Next Generations

Roots: The Next Generations is a gripping television miniseries that explores the lives and experiences of several generations of an African American family. Produced by Warner Bros., the show is a sequel to the iconic 1977 series, Roots, and it boasts an ensemble cast of talented actors, including James Earl Jones.

The series revolves around the family of Alex Haley, a noted author and historian, who wrote the novel Roots, upon which both the first and second miniseries are based. The show opens with the character of Haley, played by Jones, narrating the story of his ancestors, tracing his family tree all the way back to the 18th century and the arrival of his great-great-great-great-grandfather Kunta Kinte in America as a slave.

The subsequent episodes revolve around the lives of Haley's relatives, including his grandparents, parents, and his own children, as they navigate the many obstacles facing African Americans in the 20th century. Throughout the course of the series, viewers are introduced to a wide range of complex characters, each struggling to find their place in a world that values them less because of the color of their skin.

The show tackles a variety of themes, including the legacy of slavery, the enduring power of family and community, and the impact of race on American society. It also explores the intersectionality of race with other forms of oppression, such as class, gender, and sexuality.

One of the standout performances in the series comes from James Earl Jones, who brings a gravitas and authority to the role of Alex Haley. His rich and sonorous voice serves as a powerful anchor for the series, evoking the weight of history and the importance of storytelling in African American culture.

Other notable performances include Debbie Allen as Alex Haley's aunt, Queen; Dorian Harewood as his father, Simon Haley; and Lynn Hamilton as his grandmother, Cynthia, all of whom help to flesh out the family's history and add depth to the series' portrayal of African American experience in the United States.

One of the most powerful elements of the show is the way that it seamlessly weaves together historical events with fictionalized drama. The series covers a wide swath of history, from the early 20th century all the way up to the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, and it does so in a way that is both informative and emotionally resonant.

Overall, Roots: The Next Generations is a deeply moving and impactful miniseries that stands as a testament to the resilience, strength, and perseverance of African American people. Its exploration of the complexities of race and identity, and its unflinching portrayal of the legacy of slavery, make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of America and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

Roots: The Next Generations is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between February 18, 1979 and on Warner Bros.