There haven’t been any new updates on the “Being Mary Jane” lawsuit Gabrielle Union filed against BET, since the network issued a statement in response to the actress’ allegations (3 weeks ago), expressing their commitment to “reaching a swift and positive resolution.” I assumed that meant something would be worked out as quickly as possibly, if only for the sake of the show – one of BET’s few original scripted series, and one that’s been a hit for them, with a loyal fan base. It would be in the best interest of all parties.

In the meantime, the upcoming season of “Being Mary Jane” continues to add to its cast, with reality TV star Cardi B (“Love & Hip Hop”) and New Jersey senator Cory Booker, although neither is joining as a series regular.

Cardi B (real name Belcalis Almanzar) will appear in at least one episode, playing a… wait for it… reality TV star named Mercedes, who is described as a “round-the-way beauty with a big weave, big boobs and a big booty to match her oversized, ratchet personality”, per the official character description published by TV Line.




And Senator Booker will guest-star in an episode, likely playing himself (the upcoming 4th season will relocate Gabrielle Union’s title character to the east coast).

Also,Vanessa Angel (“Stargate SG-1”) has booked a recurring role, playing a real estate agent who becomes a mentor to Mary Jane’s brother Paul (played by B.J. Britt).

The trio joins previous cast additions Michael Ealy, Valarie Pettiford, Ashton Holmes and Chiké Okonkwo.

Following the exit of creator and executive producer Mara Brock Akil, and executive producer and director Salim Akil (the couple inked an overall deal with Warner Bros TV, where they are now set up with 2 new projects in the works), the “revamped” “Being Mary Jane” production team now includes Will Packer (as executive producer), and “The Good Wife” co-executive producer Erica Shelton Kodish (serving as showrunner and executive produce as well) for the series’ upcoming 4th season which is returning in early 2017.

Gabrielle Union leads a cast of regulars that also included Richard Roundtree, Margaret Avery, Lisa Vidal, Richard Brooks, Raven Goodwin, B.J. Britt, Aaron D. Spears, Latarsha Rose and Stephen Bishop.