Marvin Lawrence Winans III—affectionately known as Three—steps into a breakthrough role as Jaden Edwards in Netflix’s highly anticipated series “Forever.”
Best known for his recurring role as Chad on Quinta Brunson’s Emmy-winning “Abbott Elementary” and for appearances in major campaigns with AT&T, Apple, Google, and Chrysler, Three is steadily carving his place in Hollywood.
“I was surprised—and so excited!” he recalls, thinking back to the day he found out he’d landed his first series regular role. “I came home from school, and my parents gathered my siblings—Miranda, Marissa, and Maximus—then told us all the news. We celebrated together. It was a big moment.”
“Forever,” inspired by Judy Blume’s iconic 1975 novel, is a contemporary take on one of the most beloved first-love stories of all time. Executive produced and showrun by megawatt creator Mara Brock Akil, the series is set against the golden glow of 2018 Los Angeles, following two Black childhood friends, Justin and Keisha, who reunite as teens and fall headfirst into a passionate and transformative romance.
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Described as “exciting, excruciating, confusing, passionate, beautiful, terrifying, funny, sweet, messy, naïve, fierce, and forgiving,” “Forever” captures the highs and lows of first love—the first kiss, the first heartbreak, the first I love you—through an unapologetically Black lens.
As Jaden Edwards, Three plays Justin’s energetic and playful younger brother. “He’s a pest sometimes,” Three laughs, “but he really loves his family—and especially looks up to his big brother. He wants to be around him, learn from him, and be there for him.”
In a time when social media and societal pressures weigh heavy on youth, “Forever” subtly showcases the power of sibling bonds. Jaden’s admiration for his brother reflects a grounded truth: sometimes your first role model is just across the hall.
“Even though he can be annoying, Jaden learns from watching his brother’s journey—what to do, what not to do—and he wants to help however he can,” says Three.
Playing Jaden also gave Three new insights on brotherhood.
“I don’t have an older brother in real life—I am the oldest,” he shares. “But I try to set an example for my younger siblings, so they don’t have to face the same challenges I did.”
“Forever” is as much about romance as it is about family—how we love, how we fight, how we grow together.
“It’s an emotional show,” Three says. “You see how the family adapts to change, how they support one another, even through frustration. That’s what makes it real.”
Marvin Lawrence Winans III may be known as “Three,” but he’s proving he’s one of one. With “Forever,” he’s stepping into a new spotlight—and he’s just getting started.
“Forever” premieres on Netflix May 8.
Follow Marvin Winans III on Instagram for more updates.
