As ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ gears up for its eagerly awaited return in Season 2, we caught up with two of its visionary architects: Adjani Salmon and Ali Hughes.

That Grape Juice‘s Nadia Mumuni sat down with the pair to delve deep into their creative journeys, the challenges of expanding a beloved series, and how they’re navigating industry expectations while staying true to their voice.

From Kwabena’s (Salmon) evolving path to achieving his director dreams, Salmon and Hughes invite us behind the curtain, sharing moments of tests, triumph, and boundary-pushing ambition.

In an industry that often demands compromise, these two are determined to make a show that’s as rich, messy, and hopeful as real life itself.

Check out the exclusive interview below…

That Grape Juice: ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’. At its core, how would you describe what the show is all about?

Adjani Salmon: ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ is essentially a documentary about Black life, that’s what the whole show’s about. This season, though, it’s more specifically about watching a Black guy trying to succeed in the film industry, focusing on the day-to-day struggles of what that’s like. Season two is about him taking his first step into the industry during a time of DEI.

That Grape Juice: And what did you want to highlight in season two that maybe wasn’t explored in the first season?

Ali Hughes: Expanding on what Adjani just said, the DEI space felt really interesting to explore. The first season focused more on microaggressions and smaller personal obstacles, whereas this season zooms out to look at diversity and inclusion as a broader “trend.” It did some good, but we wanted to question the sincerity of it. Now you’re seeing DEI departments being disbanded everywhere, it makes you ask if it was ever really about elevating people or more of an optics thing. So the themes feel bigger this season.

That Grape Juice: Ali, as you’re listed as a director, how much of your own experience fed into this season?

Ali Hughes: I actually didn’t direct this show. This season was directed by Sebastian Thiel and Abdou Cissé, who did a fantastic job. Adjani was very keen to have Black directors, which was absolutely the right choice. I came on in more of a writing capacity, and when we started this project as a web series, it was really about a guy trying to break into the industry. Both of us had just finished film school, so there were lots of crossovers. But ultimately, this is Adjani’s idea, semi-autobiographical at least. My role has always been to help shape and support his vision.

That Grape Juice: The comedy really shines this season, one of my favourite moments was Adjani’s “how you’re going to act like that” performance. What was the energy like on set while filming?

Adjani Salmon: Weirdly good! And I say “weirdly” because, while the show looks good, it’s been a rough ride. We write like we’re making an HBO series, but don’t have HBO money. That said, this season felt different. The vibes were there, it was fun, and I think the difference was that we finally knew what we were doing. After years of figuring things out, by season tw,o we were like, “Okay, we know how to make a show now.” We could tell something was working if the crew laughed during rehearsal, and they laughed a lot. That “act like that” moment was one where even the sound guy told me, “Bro, this is it.”

That Grape Juice: Adjani, in your own words, what does it really mean to “dream whilst Black”?

Adjani Salmon: No one’s ever asked me that. I think it means dreaming beyond whatever barriers society has placed on you. It’s about striving past those limits. For me, wanting to be a filmmaker meant breaking out of the mould, because there are no filmmakers in my family. So “dreaming whilst Black” is freeing yourself and chasing what you want, even if society hasn’t prescribed that path for you.

That Grape Juice: And finally, what would you each like audiences to take away from season two?

Ali Hughes: Honestly, I just want them to enjoy it. The world feels like it’s burning sometimes, and I think there’s real value in having a bit of escapism and laughter. Of course, there’s substance for discussion, but at its most basic level, I want people to enjoy the ride.

Adjani Salmon: Yeah, Ali’s right. I just hope people enjoy it too. But specifically, I want the mandem to watch it and feel like they can open up. Express yourself, chase your dreams, and if you’ve got feelings for someone, tell them! Drop the macho act, life’s too short.

That Grape Juice: Before we wrap, I have to ask: Will there be a season three? And please, tell me Krabs and Vanessa find their way back to each other.

Adjani Salmon: We don’t know yet if there will be a season three, but if there is, we’ll see where it goes.

Ali Hughes: We’ve got ideas, definitely. But it’s a double-edged sword, because you don’t want to get too excited about ideas and then not have the season confirmed. That said, there have been discussions.

That Grape Juice: Fingers crossed, because fans, including me, are eager to see what happens with Krabs, Vanessa, and the rest of the story. Thank you both so much for your time and for giving us such a fantastic season two.

Adjani Salmon & Ali Hughes: Thank you!

***********

‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ Season 2 is back on October 9 on BBC iPlayer.

Your thoughts?

The post Exclusive: ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ Star Adjani Salmon & Ali Hughes Talk Season 2 appeared first on ..::That Grape Juice.net::.. - Thirsty?.