Trigger warning: The below article and trailer include references to sexual assault. 

HBO has dropped the first trailer for I May Destroy You (fka January 22nd). The series, created by and starring Michaela Coel is a co-production between HBO and BBC One.

The official description: A fearless, frank and provocative half-hour series exploring the question of sexual consent and where, in the new landscape of dating and relationships, the distinction between liberation and exploitation lies. Set in London, where gratification is only an app away, the story centers on Arabella (Coel), a carefree, self-assured Londoner with a group of great friends, a boyfriend in Italy, and a burgeoning writing career. But when her drink is spiked with a date-rape drug, she must question and rebuild every element of her life.

The series also stars Weruche Opia, Paapa Essiedu, Aml Ameen, Adam James, Sarah Niles and Ann Akin. Coel herself will play Arabella Essiedu, described as “a self-assured, care-free Londoner with a group of great friends, a holiday fling turned aspirational boyfriend in Italy and a burgeoning writing career.” When she becomes the victim of having been given a date-rape drug, her entire world and identity are thrown upside down.

Opia and Ameen play Arabella’s friends Terry Pratchard (Opia), Simon (Ameen) and Essiedu. Terry is described as a struggling actor who is hopeful for her career. Ameen is Simon, one of Arabella’s friends who is always trying to get her out on the party scene. Essiedu plays Kwame Acheampong, Arabella and Terry’s other best friend, who stays on Grinder and makes a living as an exercise class instructor.

James, Niles and Akin play other characters who come into Arabella’s life. James plays Julian, Arabella’s literary agent, Niles is Officer Funmi, and Akin is Alissa, a woman Simon and his girlfriend interact with thanks to an app for sexual encounters. Other cast members include newcomer Samson Ajewole, Harriet Webb, Karan Gill, Natalie Walter Ellie James and Franc Ashman.

Watch the teaser below:

The series will premiere sometime in June.

 

READ MORE:

HBO Boards New Series Created By And Starring Michaela Coel On Sexual Consent and Dating

New Series Created By And Starring Michaela Coel Will Explore Contemporary Sexual Consent, Dating

 

Photo: HBO

From Harlem to Hollywood, get the Black entertainment news you need in your inbox daily.