18 TV Series with Gay Black Mentors Guiding Messy Protagonists

The television landscape has evolved to include diverse archetypes that subvert traditional storytelling tropes. One of the most compelling dynamics involves wise, often sharp-tongued Black gay mentors who help chaotic main characters navigate their complicated lives. These characters provide essential guidance, emotional support, and reality checks to protagonists who frequently find themselves in disarray. From high-stakes magical worlds to gritty workplace dramas, these mentors stand out as the grounding force in their respective series.

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013–2021)

Captain Raymond Holt serves as the stoic and highly principled commanding officer of the 99th precinct. He takes on the challenging task of mentoring Jake Peralta, a talented but incredibly immature detective who refuses to grow up. Holt uses his decades of experience as a Black gay police officer to instill discipline and professional integrity in his reckless subordinate. Their relationship evolves from friction to a deep father-son bond that anchors the show’s comedic chaos.

‘Pose’ (2018–2021)

Pray Tell acts as the vibrant emcee of the ballroom scene and a father figure to the displaced youth of New York City. He offers tough love and essential wisdom to the members of the House of Evangelista as they navigate the AIDS epidemic and social rejection. His mentorship is particularly crucial for Blanca, whom he supports as she establishes her own legacy amidst personal struggles. The character stands as a pillar of strength who educates the community on survival, fashion, and self-respect.

‘P-Valley’ (2020–present)

Uncle Clifford is the non-binary, gender-fluid owner of The Pynk who serves as a mother figure to the strip club’s dancers. She guides the messy and secretive protagonist Autumn Night through the dangerous politics of the Mississippi Delta. Clifford protects her “daughters” with a fierce loyalty while managing the financial and emotional crises that threaten their sanctuary. Her wisdom is dispensed alongside sharp wit and a profound understanding of the human condition.

‘The Bold Type’ (2017–2021)

Oliver Grayson heads the fashion department at Scarlet magazine and serves as a demanding yet nurturing boss to Sutton Brady. He recognizes Sutton’s raw talent early on and pushes her to overcome her insecurities and financial disarray. Oliver often acts as a reality check for Sutton when her personal life threatens to derail her professional aspirations. His guidance transforms her from a scattered assistant into a confident stylist.

‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ (2015–2019)

Titus Andromedon is the eccentric and fame-hungry roommate who helps Kimmy navigate modern life after she escapes a doomsday cult. Although Titus creates plenty of his own drama, he teaches the naive Kimmy essential lessons about social norms and self-worth in New York City. He acts as her guide to the queer and cynical aspects of the world that she missed while in captivity. His flamboyant mentorship helps Kimmy reclaim her agency while adjusting to reality.

‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ (2018–2020)

Ambrose Spellman is the witty, pansexual warlock cousin who lives under house arrest at the Spellman Mortuary. He serves as a magical consultant and confidant to Sabrina as she recklessly challenges the laws of the witching world. Ambrose uses his extensive knowledge of the occult to help Sabrina clean up the dangerous supernatural messes she creates. His role is vital in keeping the teenage witch grounded as she balances her dual nature.

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

Eric Effiong is the best friend of the socially awkward protagonist Otis Milburn and often acts as his moral compass. While dealing with his own journey of self-acceptance, Eric pushes Otis to be braver and more honest in his relationships. He calls out Otis on his judgmental behavior and forces him to confront his emotional repression. Eric’s vibrant confidence serves as a model for Otis to step out of his comfort zone.

‘True Blood’ (2008–2014)

Lafayette Reynolds works as a short-order cook and medium who keeps the residents of Bon Temps grounded. He constantly saves his cousin Tara and friend Sookie from their poor decisions and supernatural entanglements. Lafayette uses his street smarts and spiritual gifts to protect those he loves from vampires, shapeshifters, and bigots. His blunt honesty cuts through the melodrama surrounding the show’s chaotic protagonists.

‘Teen Wolf’ (2011–2017)

Mason Hewitt is the intelligent and loyal best friend to Liam Dunbar, a teenager struggling with newfound werewolf powers and anger issues. He steps into the role of the researcher and strategist who helps Liam understand the supernatural threats facing Beacon Hills. Mason provides the intellectual stability that Liam lacks, often solving mysteries that the werewolves cannot navigate alone. His guidance prevents Liam from losing control and helps him mature into a leader.

‘Arrow’ (2012–2020)

Curtis Holt, also known as Mr. Terrific, brings technological genius and moral clarity to Team Arrow. He often serves as the emotional heart of the group, reminding the brooding Oliver Queen of his humanity during dark times. Curtis uses his intellect to solve problems that brute force cannot fix while encouraging the team to trust one another. His presence balances the gritty vigilance of the protagonist with optimism and brainpower.

‘Steven Universe’ (2013–2019)

Garnet is the stoic and powerful leader of the Crystal Gems who mentors the young half-human Steven. As a permanent fusion of two female gems, she represents a queer relationship and offers Steven stability as he learns to control his powers. She teaches him about patience, love, and the responsibility of being a protector of Earth. Garnet’s calm demeanor provides a safe harbor for Steven when his magical destiny becomes overwhelming.

‘Star’ (2016–2019)

Miss Bruce is the sharp-tongued hairstylist who becomes a parental figure to the girl group managed by Carlotta. She steps up to run the salon and guide the girls through the treacherous music industry when their lives spiral out of control. Miss Bruce offers practical advice and emotional support to the titular character Star, who is often blinded by ambition. Her presence ensures the girls have a stable home base amidst the chaos of fame.

‘Killjoys’ (2015–2019)

Pree is the former warlord turned bartender who serves as a confidant to the bounty hunter trio led by Dutch. He provides a safe haven at the Royale bar and offers sage advice when the team faces intergalactic political intrigue. Pree joins their missions to provide tactical support and checks the impulsive behaviors of the protagonists. His colorful past and wisdom make him an indispensable guide in their fight for freedom.

‘Emily in Paris’ (2020–present)

Julien is the trendy and dramatic co-worker who helps the clueless American Emily Cooper navigate the French luxury marketing world. Although he frequently throws shade at her fashion choices and lack of cultural awareness, he often saves her from professional disaster. Julien explains the nuances of Parisian office politics that Emily fails to grasp on her own. His mentorship is reluctant but essential for her survival at the Savoir agency.

‘Hacks’ (2021–present)

Marcus serves as the Chief Operating Officer for legendary comedian Deborah Vance and manages every aspect of her chaotic empire. He acts as the responsible adult who keeps Deborah’s business afloat while she and her writer Ava indulge in creative dysfunction. Marcus balances his own personal life with the demands of guiding Deborah through career transitions and financial hurdles. His steady hand prevents the protagonist’s world from collapsing under the weight of her ego.

‘Twenties’ (2020–2021)

Idina represents the successful Hollywood executive who mentors the scattered aspiring screenwriter Hattie. She offers Hattie a job and a foot in the door, while constantly correcting her lack of professionalism and focus. Idina challenges Hattie to take her craft seriously and navigate the industry with more maturity. Her guidance forces the messy protagonist to confront the reality of what it takes to succeed in television.

‘Young Justice’ (2010–2022)

Kaldur’ahm, known as Aqualad, serves as the mature and disciplined leader of the young superhero team. He mentors impulsive teammates like Superboy and Beast Boy, teaching them how to control their powers and work as a unit. Kaldur balances his duties with his personal journey as a gay Atlantean navigating surface-world politics. His leadership turns a group of messy sidekicks into a formidable covert operations team.

‘Queer Eye’ (2018–present)

Karamo Brown serves as the culture expert who mentors the show’s “heroes” through their emotional and psychological blocks. While the other experts fix wardrobes and homes, Karamo guides people to address the internal messiness that holds them back in life. He facilitates difficult conversations and encourages self-reflection to help participants heal from past trauma. His role is central to transforming the lives of the disorganized and struggling individuals featured in each episode.

Share your favorite mentor from this list or mention any we missed in the comments.