Welcome to the first-ever "Beyond the Gates" monthly discussion thread here on Soap Opera Network where fans of the daytime drama series can share and respond to everything about, within, and beyond the gates of Fairmont Crest and the Fairmont Crest Country Club.

The brand new series stars Tamara Tunie, Clifton Davis, Daphnee Duplaix, Karla Mosley, Alex Alegria, Lauren Buglioli, Brandon Claybon, Timon Kyle Durrett, Sean Freeman, Ben Gavin, Marquita Goings, Jibre Hordges, Jen Jacob, Maurice Johnson, Trisha Mann-Grant, Mike Manning, RhonniRose Mantilla, Ambyr Michelle, Colby Muhammad and Arielle Prepetit.

"Beyond the Gates" is the first brand new soap opera set to debut on a broadcast network in more than 25 years, since the launch of “Passions” in 1999, and the first-ever one-hour Black-centric daytime drama series.

The series is developed and produced by the CBS Studios/NAACP Venture, led by Sheila Ducksworth, in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. The series is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.

Michele Val Jean is the creator, executive producer and showrunner alongside executive producers Sheila Ducksworth, Julie Carruthers, Robert Guza Jr., Leon W. Russell, Derrick Johnson, Kimberly Doebereiner and Anna Saalfeld.

"Beyond the Gates"

Premise: Set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington, D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you’ll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those who live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have “made it” and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

Premieres Monday, February 24 at 2:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT on CBS. Stream Live and On Demand on Paramount+/Paramount+ WITH SHOWTIME. Weekdays.

"Beyond the Gates: Welcome to the Neighborhood"
Five-day, five-part half-hour daytime special airing during the week of February 17-21, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. ET/1:00 p.m. PT on CBS. Stream Live and On Demand on Paramount+/Paramount+ WITH SHOWTIME.

Episode One: Unveiling Fairmont Crest (Monday, February 17)

• In the premiere episode, “Beyond the Gates: Welcome to the Neighborhood” opens its doors to Fairmont Crest, a world rich with history, culture and secrets waiting to be uncovered. Get to know the cast and creative minds behind this groundbreaking series as they share what makes “Beyond the Gates” a first-of-its-kind storytelling experience – both in front of and behind the camera.

Episode Two: Creating the Cast (Tuesday, February 18)

• Episode two dives into the making of “Beyond the Gates”, revealing the dedication and vision that brought this epic series to life. Meet the Dupree family, the heart of Fairmont Crest, and uncover the intricate stories that shape their world. Go inside the casting process that built the show’s powerhouse ensemble, with over 40 dynamic characters brought to life by an extraordinary lineup of talent.

Episode Three: Fashion and Flair (Wednesday, February 19)

• In episode three, step behind the curtain to explore the artistry of “Beyond the Gates”’ wardrobe, hair and makeup departments. Take a tour of the show’s high-fashion wardrobe, where every look is meticulously curated to reflect each character’s personality, status and story. Get the inside scoop on the secrets behind the show’s stunning hair and makeup, including a peek inside the wig cabinet housing more than 40 custom-designed wigs.

Episode Four: A Day in the Life (Thursday, February 20)

• Episode four shows viewers a day in the life of the fast-paced world of “Beyond the Gates”, where the cast tackles an intense filming schedule – shooting up to 100 pages a day. Discover the stamina, skill and dedication it takes to bring Fairmont Crest to life, from memorizing lines to delivering powerhouse performances under pressure. Plus, meet the leading men and women of “Beyond the Gates” and get an inside look at what really goes into filming those steamy love scenes.

Episode Five: Sneak Peek and Guest Stars (Friday, February 21)

• In episode five, get ready for an exclusive first look at “Beyond the Gates”’ explosive premiere. With high stakes, deep secrets and unforgettable drama, this sneak peek sets the stage for a season filled with twists and surprises. Plus, hear directly from the cast and creators about what’s in store for Fairmont Crest. Then, unlock the ET Vault to revisit where we first met the stars of “Beyond the Gates” and where you may have seen them before.
• Additionally, don’t miss a special behind-the-scenes look at some of the show’s exciting guest stars – including “Entertainment Tonight” co-host Nischelle Turner. Go on set as she steps into Fairmont Crest for a must-see cameo, giving fans a glimpse of the fun and surprises still to come.

Official Websites

CBS.com / Paramount+

13 minutes ago, brockreynolds said:

I have to say... not feeling this show. I'm wondering if my problem is with the directing. The performances come off as "PERFORMANCES"... not organic and natural. It seems like there is a "Real housewifey" vibe running through it. I wonder if people will have a hard time finding these characters relatable. 

There are a few fans in my soap group on FB who are saying the acting is too soapy & not natural. I haven't been sure how to respond. I love the soapiness! I don't need "natural". And, as to the question of relatability, I'm there four-square 110%!

3 minutes ago, Alan said:

Yes!

First Lines, Wednesday February 26:

Doug: "Randy Parker! What's up my man?"

Randy: "Doug McBride! You tell me." 

Both are recurring characters. We are still waiting on one contract player's first appearance: Tom.

 

Still a work in progress:

https://beyondthegates.fandom.com/wiki/Category:Current_characters

🤭

Thank you! In case you can't tell, I am now collecting YOU.

Listmaker, extraordinaire, Contessa

 

12 minutes ago, Antoyne said:

Can you explain what you mean by Real Housewives vibe? I watch all cities of housewives and nothing about these characters feels like them. Not being argumentative just curious.

Not the characters... the general "feel" of the production model. 

It's cause it's different than the other soaps, you can feel the difference, the main thing is BUDGET 

 

 

A #BeyondtheGates promo on Peacock?? Their marketing campaign has been marvelous! 🫢

— BJ Van Griffin (@MrVanGriffin) February 27, 2025

3 hours ago, AmandainNC28655 said:

Okay so after yesterday's episode, I am looking at the Leslie storyline a different way. Perhaps her late love Alan, was a patient of Nicole's (since she is a pyschiatrist) who she couldn't save??? Leslie and her daughter in turn blame Nicole for his death.  By trying to weasel their way into the Richardson home, could they be plotting to kill Ted and essentially make Nicole lose everything. Make her suffer as they feel they've suffered??  Could make for an interesting twist. 

That's an interesting theory, too. 

 

 

2 minutes ago, brockreynolds said:

Not the characters... the general "feel" of the production model. 

The production is definitely different from the four other soaps, all produced in Los Angeles, where they've always been based since their premieres. We have to keep in mind: this is a new soap, in a new production location. And they don't have the predetermined production model the others have. They can and are doing things their own ways, and that's exciting.

3 minutes ago, Contessa Donatella said:

There are a few fans in my soap group on FB who are saying the acting is too soapy & not natural. I haven't been sure how to respond. I love the soapiness! I don't need "natural". And, as to the question of relatability, I'm there four-square 110%!

 

 

It's kinda the same reason I was a Knots Landing fan, and didn't watch Dynasty.  This show in some ways is coming off like a Dynasty clone dipped in chocolate. That type of show is enjoyable on a certain level, as a spectator sport, but it doesn't envelop your emotions and draw you in like natural performances do. 

42 minutes ago, Cheap21 said:

Its been fun posting live with everyone (something I havent done in probably a decade on this board) but I have to go into the office today (UGH!) so wont be able to watch till later

Boo!!! lol. But I understand. 

 

I haven't live post in forever so I've been enjoying watching it live as well. And I definitely enjoyed posting with another HW fan who has fun shade. And pictures. 😜 

 

 

3 minutes ago, Liberty City said:

The production is definitely different from the four other soaps, all produced in Los Angeles, where they've always been based since their premieres. We have to keep in mind: this is a new soap, in a new production location. And they don't have the predetermined production model the others have. They can and are doing things their own ways, and that's exciting.

They also had to build everything out from scratch as it was a completely new studio that they inherited. I think, over time, a lot of the kinks will be finessed to a more cohesive look and feel. Most new daytime soaps that have launched have had to deal with this. BTG's situation is unique in that most of the production crew didn't work on soaps in LA or NYC, so they are looking at things from a slightly different lens - which isn't bad, and makes the show more unique than the standard fare we've had for years on daytime. 

16 minutes ago, Taoboi said:

Boo!!! lol. But I understand. 

 

I haven't live post in forever so I've been enjoying watching it live as well. And I definitely enjoyed posting with another HW fan who has fun shade. And pictures. 😜 

 

 

It’s been so fun seeing all our HW’s group make their way to the BTG thread!

32 minutes ago, brockreynolds said:

It's kinda the same reason I was a Knots Landing fan, and didn't watch Dynasty.  This show in some ways is coming off like a Dynasty clone dipped in chocolate. That type of show is enjoyable on a certain level, as a spectator sport, but it doesn't envelop your emotions and draw you in like natural performances do. 

Of course, the conclusion you draw is entirely subjective, which is not unlike many things on our soaps. BTW, I didn't watch either KL or DYN. But I do find that "heightened dramatic reality" if you will, has the best chance in provoking catharsis in me since we don't want just pathos. For just one example I greatly admire Susan Seaforth-Hayes which all do not. And, so-called "chem" is IMO entirely subjective, also.

21 minutes ago, BetterForgotten said:

They also had to build everything out from scratch as it was a completely new studio that they inherited. I think, over time, a lot of the kinks will be finessed to a more cohesive look and feel. Most new daytime soaps that have launched have had to deal with this. BTG's situation is unique in that most of the production crew didn't work on soaps in LA or NYC, so they are looking at things from a slightly different lens - which isn't bad, and makes the show more unique than the standard fare we've had for years on daytime. 

Such good & important points to make!

41 minutes ago, Alan said:

Still a work in progress:

https://beyondthegates.fandom.com/wiki/Category:Current_characters

🤭

Great! This is really good. Thanks again!

Edited February 27Feb 27 by Contessa Donatella

21 minutes ago, BetterForgotten said:

They also had to build everything out from scratch as it was a completely new studio that they inherited. I think, over time, a lot of the kinks will be finessed to a more cohesive look and feel. Most new daytime soaps that have launched have had to deal with this. BTG's situation is unique in that most of the production crew didn't work on soaps in LA or NYC, so they are looking at things from a slightly different lens - which isn't bad, and makes the show more unique than the standard fare we've had for years on daytime. 

Exactly! Plus, being produced in Georgia as a brand new soap gives them the license to create their own unique-looking soap, which I think is the best avenue for them. They don't have the same problems the other four soaps have. I mean, when AMC went from New York to Los Angeles, yes, [some] things changed, but overall it looked like the same show in terms of filming/production, which I am sure they needed to maintain.

With Beyond the Gates, we don't have that. We've already seen some new filming angles and techniques in how they're establishing their own visual look. And I enjoy it a lot; I mostly watch on CBS.com during live airing, and last night, I took a look via Paramount+, and it looks twice as good on my 4KTV in comparison to CBS.com's airing or even the YouTube clips being posted.

39 minutes ago, Taoboi said:

That's an interesting theory, too. 

 

Thank you @Taoboi.  It was one thought that just crossed my mind last night as I was watching yesterday's episode.  What do you think about the show adding another core prominent family to give the Dupree's some competition?

 

I really enjoyed episode 3. It's odd how comfortable the show feels despite some of the issues with the performances which I'm sure will even out over time. They really did pick a good place to start the story so we truly are in the thick of things. I think that's whats helping me jump into the show. I don't feel like they're wasting a lot of time setting up like a soap typically would at the beginning.

I love love loved Leslie in this episode! From the first moment I saw her I have called her Sally Spectra in my mind. I know they're not the same but she gives me the same joy I got from Sally. That delicious blend of warmth, comedy and deviousness. Of course she is much more dangerous than Sally but I just know she's going to be a lot of fun.

The other big highlight for me was the family meeting. While some of the younger actors have work to do I feel like when you put them with the vets it instantly elevates them. In the first episode there was a moment between Martin and Dani that made me burst out laughing and made me believe their relationship. I also find Martin at his strongest opposite Vernon. There's been talk of ages but I feel like the chemistry is so strong that I find myself fully believing they're a family.

5 minutes ago, Liberty City said:

Exactly! Plus, being produced in Georgia as a brand new soap gives them the license to create their own unique-looking soap, which I think is the best avenue for them. They don't have the same problems the other four soaps have. I mean, when AMC went from New York to Los Angeles, yes, [some] things changed, but overall it looked like the same show in terms of filming/production, which I am sure they needed to maintain.

With Beyond the Gates, we don't have that. We've already seen some new filming angles and techniques in how they're establishing their own visual look. And I enjoy it a lot; I mostly watch on CBS.com during live airing, and last night, I took a look via Paramount+, and it looks twice as good on my 4KTV in comparison to CBS.com's airing or even the YouTube clips being posted.

I will say it does look quite nice on my 70 inch when I watch the replay on Paramount + in comparison to when I watch it on cable during the live showing on my tv in my office when I’m working. I would still bring down the lighting just a tad bit though since they use so many light colors for the homes.

2 minutes ago, Chris B said:

I really enjoyed episode 3. It's odd how comfortable the show feels despite some of the issues with the performances which I'm sure will even out over time. They really did pick a good place to start the story so we truly are in the thick of things. I think that's whats helping me jump into the show. I don't feel like they're wasting a lot of time setting up like a soap typically would at the beginning.

I love love loved Leslie in this episode! From the first moment I saw her I have called her Sally Spectra in my mind. I know they're not the same but she gives me the same joy I got from Sally. That delicious blend of warmth, comedy and deviousness. Of course she is much more dangerous than Sally but I just know she's going to be a lot of fun.

The other big highlight for me was the family meeting. While some of the younger actors have work to do I feel like when you put them with the vets it instantly elevates them. In the first episode there was a moment between Martin and Dani that made me burst out laughing and made me believe their relationship. I also find Martin at his strongest opposite Vernon. There's been talk of ages but I feel like the chemistry is so strong that I find myself fully believing they're a family.

It really feels like at times we’ve been watching this family for years and that the actors have all been playing this family together for years. There’s an undeniable chemistry between the Duprees that truly make it feel like a real family.

Count me in... in the Leslie fan-club. I'm getting obsessed with her. That's my antagonist right there.