Queen Latifah is proving that success isn’t just about how far you go, but also about what you bring back to the community that raised you.

The award-winning rapper, actress, producer and entrepreneur is taking viewers back to her hometown of Newark, New Jersey, in the upcoming BET documentary, You Can Go Home Again, premiering Friday, Nov. 27, at 10 p.m. ET.

The documentary chronicles Queen Latifah’s journey from a young girl growing up in Newark to becoming one of entertainment’s most influential figures, while highlighting her yearslong mission to create affordable housing for residents in the neighborhood where her story began.

At the center of the film is RISE Living, a mixed-use housing development featuring affordable residential units. The project’s name, which stands for “Rita Is Still Everywhere,” pays tribute to Queen Latifah’s late mother, Rita Owens, a schoolteacher whose influence continues to shape her daughter’s commitment to community and legacy.

For Queen Latifah, the development represents more than housing. It is an opportunity to invest in the people and neighborhood that helped shape her identity.

“You Can Go Home Again” is very personal to me,” shared Queen Latifah. “It’s about my community and the people and places that make us who we are. My collaboration with P&G helps bring those stories to the screen. I’m excited to share the film with BET audiences and invite them into a story that’s very close to my heart.”

From hip-hop pioneer to community changemaker

Born Dana Owens, Queen Latifah first made her mark in hip-hop with her 1989 debut album, All Hail the Queen. Her groundbreaking song “U.N.I.T.Y.,” which challenged sexism and violence against women, earned her a Grammy Award and helped establish her as a powerful voice for women’s empowerment.

Her career later expanded into television and film, including her starring role in Living Single, an Academy Award nomination for Chicago and award-winning performances in Life Support.

In 2023, she became the first female rapper to receive the Kennedy Center Honors. She is also among the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees.

Despite decades of success, Queen Latifah has remained connected to Newark, using her platform and business ventures to support meaningful community investment.

Building affordable housing and preserving a legacy

The documentary explores the development of RISE Living and the personal significance behind Queen Latifah’s efforts to expand housing opportunities in her hometown.

The project also reflects broader conversations about affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization and the importance of ensuring longtime residents can benefit from investments in their communities.

Produced by Flavor Unit Entertainment and P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble, the film is directed by Muta’Ali and executive produced by Shakim Compere and Loretha Jones.

The documentary also features Queen Latifah’s childhood friend and project partner, Tammy Hammond, highlighting the relationships and shared commitment behind the development.

As part of the collaboration, P&G’s Febreze brand supported the residential project by providing new HVAC systems designed to improve ventilation and contribute to healthier indoor air quality for residents.

A story of family, opportunity and giving back

The documentary received an exclusive first look during “An Evening with Queen Latifah,” hosted by BET and Procter & Gamble on Nov. 4 at the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.

During the event, Queen Latifah and Hammond discussed the project with P&G Chief Communications Officer Damon Jones, reflecting on the importance of family, community and creating opportunities for future generations.

The film also builds on Queen Latifah’s partnership with P&G through the Queen Collective, an initiative established in 2018 with Flavor Unit Entertainment to provide multicultural directors with mentorship, professional development and creative opportunities.

Louis Carr, president of BET, said the documentary embodies the network’s commitment to celebrating culture and community.

“Community, culture and connection are the pillars of everything we do at BET, and Queen Latifah lives all three,” said Carr. “She helped shape the culture, she never stopped investing in the community that raised her, and this Thanksgiving weekend, families will connect over a story that reminds all of us where we come from.”

Queen Latifah’s relationship with BET spans decades. The network honored her with its Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021, and she currently serves on BET’s inaugural Board of Advisors.

Through You Can Go Home Again, Queen Latifah offers a powerful reminder that building a legacy isn’t only about personal achievements. It’s also about creating opportunities, strengthening communities and making sure the next generation has a place to call home.

“You Can Go Home Again” premieres Friday, Nov. 27, at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT on BET.