The renowned actress Tamara Tunie, known for her roles in Law & Order: SVU and As the World Turns, has recently taken on the challenging role of Anita Dupree in the new CBS series, Beyond the Gates. The show, which premiered on Monday, Feb. 24, is the first-ever hour-long soap opera led by a Black cast. Tunie’s character, Anita, is the matriarch of the affluent Dupree family, residing in the exclusive, gated community of Fairmont Crest in Washington, D.C.
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In her exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Tunie reflected on her portrayal of Anita Dupree and drew parallels to her previous role as Cissy Houston in the Whitney Houston biopic, ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’. Tunie shared that both characters share a fierce love for their families and a no-nonsense attitude, making the transition between the roles seamless for her. Drawing inspiration from her own mother, Evelyn Tunie, who she describes as a strong, family-oriented woman, Tunie channelled her personal experiences into bringing Anita to life on screen.
Having spent two decades in the soap opera genre, including her tenure on As the World Turns, Tunie acknowledges the significance of Beyond the Gates featuring an accomplished Black family as its central focus. She emphasises the importance of portraying diverse stories within the African-American community, highlighting the complexity and richness of experiences that exist within the community. Tunie appreciates the show’s multi-cultural aspect, showcasing a variety of perspectives and narratives within the Fairmont Crest community.
The timing of Beyond the Gates’ premiere amidst a charged political and racial climate is not lost on Tunie, who believes the show’s representation of Black life and culture is essential in today’s society. By presenting universal stories through the lens of a Black family, the series aims to resonate with a wide audience while celebrating Black excellence. Tunie praises the show’s exploration of human frailties, secrets, and drama, crediting the writers for crafting compelling and relatable storylines that captivate viewers.
Beyond the Gates has been well-received for its refreshing approach to storytelling, embracing a diverse cast and showcasing the upscale Black lifestyle in a compelling and authentic manner. As the series unfolds, audiences can expect a blend of captivating drama, familial dynamics, and intricate relationships that will keep them engaged. Tunie’s portrayal of Anita Dupree adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, bringing to life a character that reflects the complexities of family, love, and ambition.
With its groundbreaking representation and engaging storytelling, Beyond the Gates stands out as a significant addition to the television landscape, offering a fresh perspective on African-American experiences and narratives. Tunie’s performance as Anita Dupree resonates with authenticity and emotion, underscoring the importance of diversity and representation in media. As the series continues to unfold, audiences can look forward to more twists, revelations, and compelling drama that will keep them hooked on the Dupree family’s journey in Fairmont Crest.