The Making of I May Destroy You with Michaela Coel and Co-Stars! | TV Q&A

Listen to head of editorial for gal-dem magazine, Charlie Brinkhurst-Cuff, chat to Michaela Coel about creating and starring in I May Destroy You, along with actors of the show Paapa Essiedu and Weruche Opia.
subscribe to Guru ⏩ / baftaguru
⏬ stay up to date ⏬
Twitter:
@BAFTAGuru: / baftaguru
@BAFTA: / bafta
@BAFTAGames: / baftagames
Facebook: / bafta
Instagram: / bafta
sign up for our newsletter: guru.bafta.org/...
subscribe to our podcasts:
iTunes: bit.ly/Vz84HI
Soundcloud: / bafta
visit our websites to find out more:
www.bafta.org/guru
www.bafta.org
#IMayDestroyYou #MichaelaCoel #BAFTAGuru

[@baftaguru]

What did you think of the show?

[@cjjarvis88]

BAFTA Guru love it !!! I loved Michaela from chewing gum 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👑👑👑👑 ps I’m from New York

[@_rsmdk]

it was brilliant

[@ataylor1089]

Made me feel really connected to the characters. Amazing filmography

[@michaelarnold9196]

I love it!!!!!!

[@dudewheresmypencil]

amazing

[@natalieuk1273]

I may destroy you is the best tv show I’ve seen in a long long time.

[@cnut4563a]

Yep

[@farzanayasmin599]

I agree,I couldn't stop watching, I binge watched the whole show in one day.

[@troylevy6745]

ditto

[@troylevy6745]

36:56

[@ianygayo8592]

There's one thing that really impacted me about the show, that I haven't seen much explored in any interview. The non-stereotypical portray of the black african immigrant's experience. Beautiful, nuanced and diverse. We are tough, we are loving, insecure and fierce. We are so much fun! We are plural! We are magic

[@AfricancoolChic]

Exactly 💪

[@richardbirmingham5585]

I get you...im not Black but I agree the representation of the Black experience is nearly always one dimensional in the media...like Black people can only be angry or victims....this is an amazing show...also seeing Black working class gay men was also very interesting

[@SAlina-se9xq]

Michaela is gorgeous just sitting there smiling

[@jamesmarie]

Yes, she is!

[@francescacoia8159]

She looks so proud, it's so heartwarming

[@sandyg.8318]

She’s just the epitome of perfect human anatomy. Just lovely 🥰

[@LawrenceRoss1906]

I'm an unapologetic Michaela Coel stan. :-) When you're in Los Angeles, feel free to visit The Metaphor Club, our Black owned creative space in Leimert Park (right where Insecure is filmed).

[@dontbeuhdummy]

This world would suck more without Michaela on it fr

[@freakytea2815]

It's amazing that Michaela Cole was able to write such a sensitive show about a mine-field of a topic like sexual consent, and still manage to insert some genuinely hilarious moments. She's an unbelievably talented creative force. Chewing Gum, and now this. I can't wait to see what she does in the future.

[@youwantvee]

I am a 31 year old (mixed heritage - black & white Caribbean), (new writer) from South-EastLondon. From the first episode I watched, I was just bowled over. I related with so many aspects of Arabella's charecter and it was so refreshing to essentially watch myself being played on TV for the first time ever. I've not stopped ranting on social media about how excellent this show is. I know so many of us wish we could personally thank Michaela for blessing us with this amazing piece of art. If you are reading this, then thank you soooo much! We need you!

[@rachaela.z.mutabingwa4124]

I'm a 31 year old, (new) writer from Uganda. I feel the exact same way about this show. Watched it one day and just could not stop relating to so much of it. I'm so grateful for this show, and for you. ❤️

[@Clearwater3]

The show is OUTSTANDING. I am just so happy that Micheala Cole is ALIVE! This is everything and more and so important, the conversations begun by this mastery is a healing needed by the masses. 👑

[@oliviadikranis7396]

My favourite tv show of the year. The last episode of the season is the most powerful thing i've ever seen.

[@13mysticmeg]

Beautiful show. Incredibly powerful. #MichaelaCoel is the queen of TV this year! The best show I've seen in a long time. Whilst being vastly different from Phoebe's Fleabag...it's the same type of blowing people away with how perfect this show is. I hope it will be nominated for all the awards in 2021! All of the performances are incredible. I have been sharing so much on all social media to get people to watch this show!! Seeing period sex on a mainstream show...like wow. A blood clot. That literally made me clap my hands in appreciation for showing such a "taboo" thing which half the planet do. I feel like this is a big momentum shift in representation finally!! Hearing Black women's voices! Seeing this on screen is a long time coming! Congratulations to the powerhouse Michaela for using her voice, her experience to convey this tough subject in a new refreshing way!!

[@45suad]

The period sex scene really was mind blowing. A saw a lot of push back about not wanting to see bodily waste or excrement of tv, but we see poop used as a comedic tool or even in dramas all the time. Why are we afraid to talk about or depict something so natural??

[@mokachyna22]

Chewing Gum preceded Fleabag. The comparisons are annoying.

[@mezznj]

The period made me elk too I did have comparisons to Fleabag Which then flushed down a toilet quickly The pace of this series had you by the throat all the way There is no comparison for me now I don't know how Michaela did it ? Both personally and politically- she's completely changed the landscape Words are not enough

[@mezznj]

Yes There's definitely somethin bout menstrual blood being handled on screen

[@ANGELSLVME]

Is Fleabag really as great as they say it is?

[@monalucas6421]

So impressed with this show and how it looks at consent from SO many different perspectives and circumstances, that it shows that it's not only women who are victimized, that women can be perpetrators, that consent can be about big issues (like rape) and smaller ones. I am so glad there's a show like this, kudos to Michaela for the writing of it, and while I think it will have a big audience, I hope it will seep into the consciousness of older people too. It's brilliant.

[@lucywilkins1580]

This show is incredible and Michaela brings such a warmth to the room seeing how proud she is of the other actors and of herself. It’s so refreshing to see a show like this, real experiences and trauma and most of all a black, female director who has been given the space to make this work that needs to be seen. I will be watching chewing gum next !

[@KandaceCaineEntertainment]

The Best TV show EVER!!! Michaela Cole is a genius !!!!

[@jenniferjenify]

Authentic people devoted to their craft will always lead to beauty! LOVE!

[@michellesmith-px3xn]

This show took me on an EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER! One minute I’m on the edge of my seat, crying watching Arabella endure these horrible flash backs. 😢 To laughing my head off watching the hilarious period sex scene. 🤣 The cast are AMAZING, and ORGANIC. ❤️ I can’t wait to see what she does next. 🙏🏽

[@nicholarichards4803]

The show is amazing!

[@ivysingletary8286]

I really love the show and the representation of so many attractive black men and women.

[@victormartinsldn9291]

I loved the show, it felt so real and seeing black people speaking like me and relating with their backgrounds. This is a show everyone should watch, it provoked so much conversation such as consent and complex relationships between people. Its a emotional rollercoaster, i'm definitely gonna watch the whole series again.

[@buleberryjam177gaming7]

Totally outstanding what a talent Michaela Cole is. The cast were also amazing. I was on the edge of my seat watching every episode so many favourite clips to mention. So thought provoking. Deserves a bafta and get it aired in US for an Oscar!!!

[@k.m.jordan4774]

LOVE THE SHOW!!! It scares me sometimes!! It feels very authentic and honest. Real people! LOVE IT!!!

[@melissasamp24]

Michaela 's features are sooo amazing!

[@mezznj]

Breathtaking series I'm gonna watch it again Protect these artists at all,costs They deserve every accolade going Hands down The most intelligent, challenging, political series in absolute years

[@edscottdotblog]

Loved the show, best British TV drama I think I've ever seen. On a side note, did anyone else think that Weruche Opia had a Bafta head printed on her bedroom door?

[@Rosa-lh9gk]

Omg Michaela you are brilliant, such insight! Love your masterful writing, the dark and the light. Weruche and Paapa are brilliant too- your characters so beautifully crafted. Awards Awards Awards! We need more shows like I May..... An inspiration, love you all ❤️

[@rondar.8746]

The show brings my anxiety levels up. It's so we'll written and acted.

[@saltoftheearth.8200]

Thank you Michaela for ones of the best series we've had in a long time🖤🖤🖤🖤

[@piinkfiiend98]

This show is a masterpiece. The creator (Michaela) love her and cast were all great. That's why shows like "I May Destroy You" and "Insecure" have been phenomenal due to the reality it bring to our current social climate.

[@isthatlois566]

Such a good show! Michaela Coel is an amazing actress, screenwriter, director, producer, singer, songwriter, poet and playwright. So versatile 😍

[@bodhgaia]

Best TV show I have ever watched. Cannot wait to see what Michaela Coel will do next and all the amazing cast. Thanks for this gem!

[@isabellabobadilla1260]

Wonderful ! This show has made me laugh and cryyyyy, thank you for making this beautiful piece of art

[@hdhaliwal795]

I loved it, the roots of the show connect so many stories on consent, trauma and humour. Humour thread throughout it is really reflective of life

[@Lavenderkist]

Black excellence!!! Love all the hard work you all put into the show. Thank you Michaela ♥️♥️♥️

[@randyriley8733]

Best show ever! I love the risque' topics, the inclusion of different lifestyles and just the "no holds barred" type of approach towards subjects!

[@maiaautumne2167]

Love these guys they’re all beautiful and great actors!

[@SharionSade]

I love I May Destroy You! So much so that I decided to review and recap the show! The only show I recap actually, it’s my favorite show rn

[@kj5075]

Here in DC, USA. This show, the content and the cast is amazing!

[@DorisClay]

This show was AMAZING! I saw the photo of the show, recognized those cheekbones from Chewing Gum (I still want more seasons) and had to watch. Michaela get your Issa on!!!!

[@yskim2636]

I binged this show in one night and I am completely destroyed. In the best way. The storytelling, the characters, the writing, the performances, the all-around boldness and vulnerability... honestly, my spirit has been simultaneously leveled and rejuvenated in one exhilarating shot. I can't stop thinking about it. Michaela is a warrior.

[@dionnewright3577]

Fantastic show, lots to think about, entertaining, humours and so meany issues touched on. It's a must watch. Thanks for some quality black british TV.

[@elizabethhicks3768]

Such a brilliant drama , great casting and so real to life ! Loving the characters each bring a different dimension but have to say I’m blown away by Michaela Cole such a super talent 👌👏👏

[@Alibannany]

This is one of my most favourite shows I’ve seen in a very very long time. Michaela Cole is a genius.

[@mayanova8152]

Incredible work! We need more content like this in the world.

[@taggthis]

Amazing writer!

[@masterl14]

LEGENDARY!!

[@onetimelovely]

This show is so amazing. My cousins and are find ourselves talking about it everytime we watch it. The topics that is presented in terms of dealing with societal "social norms" and things we don't talk about. normalizing the "unacceptable" in society is a convo that needs to be had. Amazing work guys please continue. You have our support, because y'all bring something to the table that need to be talk about!.

[@CrabbyQueen]

Love love love the show! Michaela is so needed and so talented.. as are all the actors and actresses on the show ✊🏾☺️

[@junef73]

I'm Irish, I cannot identify with Michaela's experience or vision but I loved this piece of art. The production, acting and created atmosphere was amazing. I just loved it. Bravo 👏👏👏

[@yasg2514]

Love you guys amazing and so interesting show you all killed it. I'm doing happy dance for you all Michaela, LOVE YOU..

[@SunnyDhesi]

10/10 show

[@krithikay]

Everything about this show is so raw, beautiful and strikes a chord at so many levels.

[@pmclarke-eugene4120]

Such an excellent show loving it

[@DaleelahSada]

Great Conversation and you all are beautiful 😍

[@kayrup3712]

Beautiful people, amazing show!!

[@chelseagalloway6913]

It's real, really dark and sad. I am hoping the characters can find strength, power, and peace by the end of the first season or at least show they are moving towards those things.

[@racqynathiri856]

That is life... it’s dark; but not that Dark. Its life. It’s dark its light it’s funny! IT IS A GREAT SHOW! ITS LIFE.

[@amberb8942]

Is this an interview or Colgate ad? Such beautiful people 😍

[@omanduhuislife3367]

Just sat and watched the whole show, and I'm like....not enough words can describe the depth of your artistry. Thank you thank you for NOT compromising on your talent🙏🙏👏👏🥇👑🔥🔥🔥

[@fattidiliberta]

The serie is GENIUS. I am floored and elevated at the same time. Thank you🌈🙏

[@IshwaraYogaNET]

I loved this show more than life itself ... ok, thats quite strong, but i did/do love it and the key performers really touched me, like family already, like the people i knew and clubbed with in hoxton and camden in the mid 80's

[@bbii5231]

Love this show! Many important topics brought to the forefront, and it's relevant for all people, no matter where you live. Makes you think, a lot. Kwame, Bella and Terri are lovely. Another season?

[@tomekyewilkerson3823]

I love this show so far, ever since the promos started I was intrigued, and I am so glad that I decided to watch it.

[@lullabell7777]

Yasssssssss my peoplee

[@bencwt]

absolutely incredible show!

[@MeenakshiRaman1]

Absolutely fantastic show.

[@yasg2514]

Awww so sweet they all so shy love you all loved, loved the show more please..

[@ebyd2756]

Awesome script and cast - all made for the role. I enjoyed all the scenes. Simply amazing

[@cs-hd1zr]

my favorite show 10/10

[@meapantz1983]

I may have to watch I may destroy you all over again. Such class 👏👏👏

[@ashikab5963]

Absolutely Amazing 👌👌👌

[@xoxoIzzI23]

Such a great interview! So many gems from each of these creatives and I am (like everyone) in awe of Michaela. You can just see how authentic she is to her "nugget of truth" when creating these projects. This show is everything with it's spectrum of very real topics & I can't wait to see how everything turns out!

[@RivaG]

guess i'll watch this after I have seen episode 4 as i don't want it spoiled- love this show and Michaela

[@tinnettachurch2902]

Love the show! I was so excited to see that Michaela had a new project. I happened upon Chewing Gum on Netflix and was hooked!

[@stephenlouw2980]

This show is everything!

[@lisahutchings1953]

Just an amazing show...drama of the year...writing, cast, soundtrack, location (im hackney so local scenes) were all incredable x

[@c.dialoreece8920]

😍😍😍Michaela's eyes, face, and bangin' yoga body. LOVE the show❣❣❣

[@daniellereynolds2413]

One you will not forget , Amazing .......

[@YourGirlSudanny]

I THOROUGHLY enjoyed all 12 episodes! Hearing her process when creating this was beautiful. I can't wait to see what she does next!

[@fraracci]

This show is everything!!! Thank you Michaela you are a #QUEEN and the show is sick♡

[@fraracci]

On a side note I keep wanting to read I will destroy you :)

[@LasEsisters]

We need more of this TV! Best show I’ve seen for a while 🙌🏼🙌🏼 thank you for bringing it to us

[@Desiklown]

honestly great series

[@dbgreene9020]

I May Destroy You is by far the best television show I've seen in a very long time. I was triggered a bit, but it is the most honest, and thought provoking piece of art on consent and sexual assault. BRILLIANT 👏

[@trixiedelacroix]

I love you all very much.

[@lnourb]

you all are gorgeousss! thank you for everything !!

[@MissRichTV]

Absolutely loved this show it resonated so much with me. I had to make a video about it.

[@evaserratos2911]

I have so much respect for michaela

[@Monique-rn9lg]

Congratulations to the cast and especially to Micheala. What a great show. There's nothing like it.....

[@Lilacimpressions]

Such brilliant minds! 🧠 💥

[@laylah150]

wallahi michaela is just good vibes sis radiates good energy, she's beauts

[@DMS5511]

Just about to watch episode 9. I hope season 2will be made.

[@mishajohns8423]

An amazing show !! I can't wait to see what she'll do in the future : )

[@nattchi8731]

🎉VivA Michaela ❣️ 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@moronsmorons]

I LOVED it!

[@fattidiliberta]

Best show of the decade....

[@fiona3821]

I saw the show I loved it 👏

[@mooml1100l1]

Great job on that interview

[@janetta98]

Paapa is perfect in the role of Kwame. It's funny how Michaela had never thought of him for it. :)

[@THEOUTCASTSCREATIVE]

Brilliant show, which doesn't go for obvious resolutions for any of its characters dilemmas.

[@VEE-rd7cu]

Michaela my 1st intro to You was "Chewing Gum", it was solely by accident & I was hooked. Whoopy Goldberg did a 1-man show when she 1st started (oops, telling my age), pretending to be 'a white girl', she was wearing a mop, I think on her head. Will anyway, I feel she was brilliant, like noone else & she continued to get colorless rolls. A long comment, to recognize your brilliance,. You shine thru All color-lines, in a world of racist views of 'what is beauty'. I'm old school & enjoy less sexual scenes; some of your scenes are soo sexually graphic, but You tell an important story for women, like No means No! Rape is violence, whether you are on a date or a stranger! Anyway, to many lines. I think you radiant!

[@VEE-rd7cu]

@Bon Vivant, yes colorless might be an incorrect description. She is definitely, colorful. But thru the western lens of what is beauty & sexy, she is not the typical sex symbol. Although, she has great sex appeal. The shows that I have seen are sex scenes with white men, Asians & Indian men, etc., I haven't seen her with brothers, interesting (?) I hope in the future her sex scenes are less graphic; she's a wonderful actress & her material deals with the issues of today.

[@soulstarmusiclover1254]

This is one beautiful cast and Michaela is stunning..her eyes cheeks lips...a photographers dream.

[@SthandwaM]

Watched this half expecting Kwame (Kwams) to get up and leave halfway through to meet his Grindr date.

[@lenaabrams7837]

Love love love this series!! However did not understand the last episode...