BET Talks

Malcolm D. Lee Talks ‘The Best Man’ Legacy, New Novel & Personal Growth

Episode Notes

Acclaimed filmmaker Malcolm D. Lee sits down with Jamila Mustafa for an exclusive BET Talks conversation, unveiling his latest creative venture—a debut novel. Best known for shaping culture with The Best Man film franchise and the acclaimed series The Best Man: The Final Chapters, Lee is now expanding the beloved universe with his new book: The Best Man: Unfinished Business.

In this revealing conversation, Lee opens up about his decision to continue the story in literary form, working alongside author Jayne Allen, and how themes like fatherhood, redemption, and emotional evolution make this next chapter richer than ever. He also shares behind-the-scenes insight into his writing process, his real-life inspirations, and what it means to pivot with purpose.

• 00:00 – Meet Malcolm D. Lee: Screenwriter, Director & Now Author
• 01:01 – This or That: Quick-Fire Fun
• 02:01 – Why It Was Time to Write a Novel
• 03:01 – Collaborating with Co-Author Jayne Allen
• 04:46 – Exploring the Characters in New Depth
• 06:16 – Balancing Humor, Heartbreak & Healing
• 07:10 – “Who’s the Villain?” — A Real Talk Moment
• 08:35 – Inspired by Real Brotherhood: The Roots of The Best Man
• 09:53 – From Rejection to Resilience: Pushing Through the “No’s”
• 12:20 – Keeping the Narrative Fresh
• 13:56 – Getting Emotional: Staying Connected to the Story
• 14:41 – The Pen or the Lens? Choosing His Creative Tools
• 15:05 – Sable Bourbon Brown Spirit: The Book’s Perfect Pairing
• 17:31 – Advice from Lee: Pivot with Purpose
• 17:52 – Closing Thoughts