Courtesy of BET

Where are all my sistas at?! Tyler Perry’s #SistasOnBET returns tonight at 9/8c. In celebration of Andi, Karen, Danni, Sabrina, and Fatima returning to our screens, we’re sharing what the cast has in common with some of our “Black Love Doc” fan favorites all month long. First up, we’re showing love to Zac & Fatima, played by Devale Ellis and Crystal Renee Hayslett. 

Fans of #SistasOnBET might have been rooting for Zac and Karen to work things out, but his newfound love with Fatima had us all singing a different tune. From the start, Fatima reassured Zac, met him with kindness, and overall just believed in him the way we would all want our partners to. Whether you call Fatima a woman who believed in his potential, or all-around a supportive bae, the character’s spirit is certainly one that’s admirable- and we could all learn from her and Devale’s real-life ride or die, his wife, Khadeen Ellis. In Season 2 of “Black Love Doc“, Devale and Khadeen shared their 19-year love story, and how Khadeen’s support has guided Devale through life since they met. Think you’re a supportive bae? Check out some of the beautiful ways The Ellises, and Zac & Fatima have supported each other, and consider a check-in with your partner.

5 Signs You’re a Supportive Bae 

1. 1. You’re a Safe Space to Land

Does your partner feel safe to talk to you at any time, or are you short-tempered? Safety is essential for relationships, and not just in terms of financial security and monogamy, but knowing that you can talk to your partner about anything. Much like Khadeen and Devale, Zac and Fatima lay it all on the table and are open to having uncomfortable conversations, because ultimately, the health of your relationship depends on it. No one wants to be in a relationship where they can’t be their full selves. 

1. 1. You and Your Partner Pivot Well Together 

Long before Devale landed the role of Zac on “Sistas,” he was a pro-athlete who wanted to retire to pursue a career in acting. Khadeen’s support through this major life shift helped them create the life they have now. The one thing that’s constant in life is change. In order to navigate relationships, you have to know how to grow with your partner whether you’re switching careers, relocating, or just growing individually.  

1. 1. You Have Each Other’s Back

Everyone wants to have a partner that has their back no matter what, and we know that Zac and Fatima have that! While they have past flames who try to get in the way of their new relationship, they support each other through everything. They go hard for each other, and so do Devale and Khadeen.

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1. 1. You Aren’t Afraid to Have Hard Conversations

Love this open conversation between Zack and Fatima! Yes ask all your questions and talk it out with the wine on deck! #SistasOnBET

— Riesha (@ad0rechanel) December 23, 2021

Past relationships and life overall can often cause us to come into relationships with a guard up, but what I love most about Zac and Fatima, is how honest they were about the relationship trauma they brought into their new romance. Fatima was transparent about how she needed to take things slowly at first, and Zac let her know that he’d never had a partner who believed in him the way she does. Like the Ellises who always share their truths in conversations on their podcast Deadass, they make time for difficult discussions that strengthen their relationship and build trust in each other. 

1. You’re Committed to Your Long-Term Goals

 

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A post shared by Devale Ellis (@iamdevale)

Zac’s a complex character with many struggles, but Fatima’s support assured him along the way that he’d be able to create a new life for himself. Having someone in your corner who sees not only your potential but understands that your circumstances don’t define you makes a world of difference. Much like Fatima, Devale assured Khadeen that every year would be better with him. In this clip, you see Khadeen sharing that Devale delivered on the promise he made her the day they got married “You promised me every year would be better than the last, and you kept your word.” We stan couples that trust each other and level up in life together every year.  

Think you’re a supportive bae? Let us know in the comments to keep the conversation going, Black Love Fam! 

Tyler Perry’s “Sistas” returns with all-new episodes Wednesdays at 9/8c on BET. 

Made in partnership with BET