CBS's African American-led daytime soap opera Beyond the Gates is set to spotlight HBCUs in a big way, per a press release obtained by HBCU Pulse on ClutchPoints. The series will introduce a fictional HBCU, Banneker University, in episodes premiering Friday, October 2, and Monday, October 5.
Per the release, Banneker University is the alma mater of several generations of the Dupree family, and the characters will tailgate at the Dupree family home before Banneker's homecoming game. The characters will spotlight the HBCU lineage in their family, and a spirit bus ride to the homecoming game will be spotlighted. Exclusive pictures obtained by HBCU Pulse on ClutchPoints showcase the cast at the Dupree House and on the spirit bus, rocking Banneker University apparel and colors.
Article Continues BelowThis isn't the first time that Beyond the Gates has used the show to connect with HBCUs. In February 2025, the series created a contest that would allow HBCU students in Georgia to win a walk-on role.
“In addition to launching a groundbreaking series, we, and CBS, wanted to offer an aspirational experience for a young adult interested in exploring all things TV,” said president of CBS Studios/NAACP Venture Shelia Ducksworth in a statement in February 2025. “We also wanted to pay homage to HBCUs—which have been a guiding force for students, families, and communities for almost 200 years—and also thank Georgia for availing so many resources to us for the creation of ‘Beyond the Gates.’ We hope that we may pique interest in young people who may have dreams that lie either in front of or behind the camera, and we’re excited to review all of the submissions from outstanding HBCU students of Georgia, regardless of major, and have our winner spend a day with us on set.”
In March 2025, it was announced that North Carolina A&T student Jaden Miller would land a role on the series as Tyrell Richardson, an adopted family member of the Duprees.