New AI Drama Debuts on Boss Up
Power and Influence pits a CEO against a Gen Z creative in a workplace conflict centered on artificial intelligence.
By Takeshi Davidson ·
A new microseries titled Power and Influence has launched on the Boss Up platform, centering its narrative on the friction between established business leadership and emerging artificial intelligence technology. The show features Ivory Shields and Tenia Madan in leading roles that represent two distinct perspectives on the future of work.
Shields portrays Nia Whitmore, a self-made CEO who built her company over years of labor. The character resists adopting a new AI engine because it threatens the operational methods that created her legacy. Shields described Nia as a blend of Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada and supermodel Naomi Campbell. She clarified that Nia is not a villain but a woman protecting the relationships and business structures she established through hard work.
Madan plays Zuri, a street-smart Gen Z creative who is often underestimated by older colleagues. Zuri possesses a strong understanding of technology, which gives her a distinct advantage in the workplace. Madan noted that she studied technology previously, which helped her connect with the role. Her character specifically uses her knowledge to identify deepfakes and navigate the new AI tools.
The two actresses discussed their characters during an interview with Cheryl Jackson on Get Up Mornings with Erica Campbell. Shields explained that Nia is hesitant to trust the new AI, while Zuri attempts to convince her to see the technology differently. The series examines the tension between business traditions and the rapid changes brought by digital innovation. It raises questions about trust and creativity in a corporate environment.
The first four episodes of the series are currently available for viewing. Four additional episodes are scheduled to drop the following Monday. Viewers can access the content through the Boss Up website or via the TikTok handle @bossuptalk. The series is part of Urban One's entry into the microseries market, which also includes the thriller Foul Play.
The story follows two ambitious women on opposite sides of a debate regarding the integration of AI into professional settings. Shields stated that she enjoyed exploring a different side of her acting abilities through the role of Nia. The character’s choices are driven by a desire to protect her professional legacy. Madan brought her own personality to the role, citing a genuine interest in the subject matter.
