On Feb. 13, the nation celebrates the unofficial holiday of platonic female love, Galentine’s Day. In the Black community, having your girls, your closest female friends, has served as a lifeline for women to affirm their experiences, navigate life’s volatility, and even mitigate discrimination.
In movies, television, and pop culture overall, we have seen these Black female friendships centered and sometimes thoroughly examined. Here’s a look at 12 iconic Black besties.
Khadijah, Regine, Maxine & Synclaire (Living Single)
We start with the blueprint for TV friendships — and the actual show “Friends” — which taught us how to navigate New York careers, sisterhood, and love.
Savannah, Gloria, Robin & Bernadine (Waiting to Exhale)
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A timeless movie that showcased the nuance and power of Black sisterhood on the big screen.
Tia & Tamera (Sister Sister)
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The real-life twins showed us that even the blood sister you didn’t know existed can become your best friend.
Cleo, Tisean, Frankie & Stony (Set it Off)
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You say you’re ride-or-die for your friends, but are you willing to rob a bank with them?
Pam & Gina (Martin)
Variety / Contributoria GettyWe may have been laughing at the comedic timing between Martin and Pam, but the real-life friendship between Pam and Gina was palpable.
Beyoncé & Kelly Rowland
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These talented entertainers taught us that solo careers can’t break up true friendships.
Toni, Joan, Lynn & Maya (Girlfriends)
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We laughed, cried, and cringed watching these four navigate their bond and relatable ups and downs.
Breanna & Spirit (One on One)
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In the early 2000s, we saw these two best friends tackle family dynamics, high school life, and all that comes with growing up.
Gayle King & Oprah Winfrey
Friends for half a century, these two media titans who first met at a local TV station, personify best friend goals.
Molly & Issa (Insecure)
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These two showed that your best friend can be a source of strength when you’re up and when you’re down.
Dina, Ryan, Lisa & Sasha (Girls Trip)
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We saw that nothing can bring you closer and force you to address your real issues than a trip with your girls.
Quinn, Tye, Angie & Camille (Harlem)
We watched this group of 30-somethings take on Harlem while having each other’s back.
