As Beyond the Gates officially celebrates its first year on the air, series star Karla Mosley says she can hardly believe the milestone has arrived.
Karla Mosley Opens Up About The First Year Of Beyond The Gates
In an exclusive interview with People, the daytime veteran — who brings Dani Dupree to life — reflects on a year filled with groundbreaking moments, rapid momentum, and what she describes as “surreal” progress.
Set in the predominantly Black gated community of Fairmount Crest, a fictional Maryland suburb perched just outside Washington, D.C., the CBS drama has captivated viewers with its layered storytelling and rich ensemble. But even with a front-row seat to every twist and secret, Mosley admits the anniversary feels almost unreal.
“I really can’t believe it,” she tells PEOPLE. “We’ve done so much work, and I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come. It’s gone so fast. I can’t believe that just a year ago, we were at the Image Awards saying the show’s coming out tomorrow and doing the whole press tour. It’s unbelievable.”
A Vision Powered by Two Creative Forces
Mosley attributes much of the show’s success to the unmatched creativity and leadership of head writer Michele Val Jean and CBS Studios president/executive producer Sheila Ducksworth — the duo, she says, shaped the series into something extraordinary.
“I’m so astounded by the depth of storytelling — the intricacy, the way Michele is weaving all of these characters together,” Mosley shares. “The show wouldn’t exist without her brain, imagination, and care.”
She adds that Ducksworth’s impact is equally essential.
“Sheila is just a pioneer woman. She doesn’t take no for an answer. She has vision and years of experience,” Mosley says. “So the two of them together have created something magical.”
A Historic First for Daytime
When Beyond the Gates premiered last February, it instantly made television history. The series became:
The first Black-led soap opera in 35 years, following Generations, which aired from 1989 to 1991.
The first new daytime soap in decades, since the debut of Passions in 1999.
The first-ever hour-long daytime drama led by a predominantly Black cast.
In a genre known for its longevity but not its expansion, Beyond the Gates stands as a rare and groundbreaking addition — and one that centers Black families, culture, and storytelling in a way daytime hasn’t seen in generations.
A Promising Road Ahead
As the CBS series enters its second year, Mosley says she feels inspired by the community the show has built — both on-screen and off. “It’s surreal, but it also feels like just the beginning,” she says. With its rich ensemble, bold storytelling, and visionary leadership behind the scenes, Beyond the Gates is poised to continue pushing boundaries and making history in daytime television. And if its first year is any indication, viewers can expect the drama inside Fairmount Crest to grow even deeper, richer, and more unforgettable.
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