First Wives Club cast: Who stars in the series?

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JULY 06: Sarunas Jackson, Michelle Buteau, Ryan Michelle Bathe and RonReaco Lee speak onstage at BET Essence Festival Weekend – House Of BET- First Wives Club Screening With Ryan Michelle Bathe, Michelle Buteau And RonReaco Lee at Il Mercato on July 06, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ryan Theriot/Getty Images for BET Essence Festival Weekend)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JULY 06: Sarunas Jackson, Michelle Buteau, Ryan Michelle Bathe and RonReaco Lee speak onstage at BET Essence Festival Weekend – House Of BET- First Wives Club Screening With Ryan Michelle Bathe, Michelle Buteau And RonReaco Lee at Il Mercato on July 06, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ryan Theriot/Getty Images for BET Essence Festival Weekend) /
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The First Wives Club series, a contemporary reimagining of the 1996 comedy movie of the same name, is making its highly anticipated debut on Netflix on November 15, 2023! This BET+ original series reunites audiences with the timeless story of three college friends, Ari, Hazel, and Bree. Their paths converge again due to the unfortunate passing of a mutual friend, and as they grapple with Hazel’s very public divorce, Ari’s less-than-satisfying marriage, and Bree’s unfaithful husband, a bond stronger than ever rekindles. The official synopsis, per Amazon Prime, reads:

"“After neglecting their friendship, best friends Ari, Hazel, & Bree reunite to navigate Hazel’s public divorce, Ari’s unsatisfying marriage, and Bree’s cheating husband. Together, the women learn that as long as they have each other, they’re unstoppable.”"

This 2019 adaptation of the First Wives Club story brings a fresh, modern twist to the original narrative. With a commitment to inclusivity and a contemporary approach, the series promises to retain the empowering spirit of its predecessor while introducing a new generation to the joys of female camaraderie and righteous revenge.

If you’re curious about the stars breathing life into Ari, Bree, Hazel, and the rest of the cast, you’re in the right place! Join us as we unveil the talented ensemble that brings this exciting series to life below!

Set apart from its predecessor, the series redefines the narrative with an entirely African-American cast, offering a fresh lens into the experiences of women facing similar trials, thereby creating a more diverse and inclusive story. At the heart of the First Wives Club are three vibrant characters: Ari, Bree, and Hazel, brought to life by the remarkable talents of Ryan Michelle Bathe, Michelle Buteau, and Jill Scott. Read on to find out more about their character and the actresses that bring them to life below:

Ryan Michelle Bathe as Ariel ‘Ari’ Montgomery (née Carmichael)

Ryan Michelle Bathe in First Wives Club
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 22: Ryan Michelle Bathe attends the Los Angeles Premiere of Focus Features’ “Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul.” at Regal LA Live on August 22, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images) /

In the series, Ryan Michelle Bathe takes on the role of Ari Montgomery, a brilliant attorney who initially sacrificed her career to support her husband’s political campaign, leading to unforeseen complications. Ryan Michelle Bathe, an accomplished actress renowned for her depth and emotional resonance in her performances, has been a pivotal contributor to the series’ success. Stay updated on her latest projects and behind-the-scenes glimpses by following her on Instagram: @ryanmichelleb.

Michelle Buteau as Dr. Bree Washington

Michelle Buteau in First Wives Club
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 11: Michelle Buteau attends Netflix’s “Survival Of The Thickest” New York Premiere at Metrograph on July 11, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/WireImage) /

Michelle Buteau graces the screen as Dr. Bree Washington, another key character in the series. Bree is characterized by her resilience and wit as she, like her friends, confronts the challenges of divorce and seeks justice against her ex-husband. Michelle Buteau, celebrated as a stand-up comedian, actress, and podcast host, infuses her vibrant personality and comedic prowess into the role. To catch her humor and get a glimpse of her latest endeavors, follow her on Instagram: @michellebuteau.

Jill Scott as Hazel Rachelle

Jill Scott in First Wives Club
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 01: Jill Scott performs on day 2 of the 2023 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ at Caesars Superdome on July 01, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images) /

Jill Scott embodies the role of Hazel Rachelle, one of the series’ main characters. Hazel, a woman of strength and determination, finds solace in her sisterhood after her marriage crumbles and joins her friends in seeking revenge. Jill Scott, a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, actress, and poet, brings her remarkable talent and versatility to the screen. To keep up with her multifaceted career, follow her on Instagram: @missjillscott.

In addition to these exceptional leads, the series boasts a talented ensemble cast! The complete list of actors featured in the series, as per IMDb, includes:

  • RonReaco Lee as Gary Washington
  • Mark Tallman as David Montgomery
  • Michelle Mitchenor as Jayla Wright
  • Tara Pacheco as Versace
  • Bill Barrett as Jacob Rosen
  • Deborah Cox as Regina Crowell
  • Mikhail Keize as Nigel
  • Tobias Truvillion as Khalil
  • Jordan Carlos as Curtis
  • Malik Yoba as Derek Ellsworth
  • Auston Jon Moore as Ollie Washington
  • Jaxon Rose Moore as Imani Washington
  • Essence Atkins as Maxine Hart
  • Sydney Mitchell as Vanessa
  • Tasha Smith as Savannah

Gain insight into the series directly from the actors themselves. Discover what to expect from their own perspectives below:

For those eager to binge-watch, First Wives Club is a perfect choice! Upon its release on Netflix U.S. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, the first three seasons will be fully available for viewing on the streaming platform.

As of now, BET+ has not officially announced the renewal of First Wives Club for a fourth season. This leaves the future uncertain; we’re unsure if a new installment is on the horizon or if the series has been canceled. However, online rumors and speculations have hinted at the recent Hollywood strikes potentially hindering the producers’ ability to proceed with the project. With the writer’s and actor’s strikes now officially resolved, there is potential for this to change. We recommend keeping a close watch as an official announcement might be imminent.

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