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Zane's The Jump Off
Zane's The Jump Off
Zane's The Jump Off
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Zane's The Jump Off
Created byZane
StarringAmin Joseph
Sean Riggs
J. Teddy Garces
Damian Raven
Kinyumba Mutakabbir
Country of originUnited States
Original languageEnglish
No. of seasons1
No. of episodes13
Production
Executive producerZane
Running time30 minutes
Production companies
Original release
NetworkCinemax
ReleaseMarch 29 (2013-03-29) –
June 21, 2013 (2013-06-21)

Zane's The Jump Off is an American television series on the Cinemax network, created by Zane. The series follows the lives of five successful African American men from all sorts of backgrounds as it tells the stories of their everyday lives. The series aired from March 29 to June 21, 2013.[1]

Plot

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Zane's latest series follows five 30-something frat brothers and their women as they grapple with issues like commitment, fidelity and forgiveness.[2]

Cast and characters

[edit]

Main

[edit]
  • Amin Joseph - Dmitri Vance
  • Sean Riggs - Earnest Bishop
  • J. Teddy Garces - Spencer Martinez
  • Damian Raven - Gabriel Turner
  • Kinyumba Mutakabbir - Fenwick "Woody" Wood

Recurring

[edit]
  • Joe Torry - Chandler Bishop
  • Tanjareen Martin - Lauren
  • Gregg Wayans - Harris Jones
  • Johanna Quintero - Portia Bishop
  • Latifah Creswell - Brenda Lancaster
  • Monique Cash - Nandi Carter
  • Wlehyonneh Toles - Kenya Wood
  • Sasha Van Duyn - Aspen Turner
  • Jen Morillo - Sabrina
  • Jude B. Lanston - Doctor Stovall
  • Erika Jordan - Jennifer

Episodes

[edit]
No.TitleDirected byWritten byOriginal release dateUS viewers
(millions)
1"First Down"Jean MoodyZaneMarch 29, 2013 (2013-03-29)N/A
Football star Dmitri hosts a party at his nightclub, The Jump Off, with his frat brothers to celebrate the break-up of Woody Wood's marriage. Meanwhile, their respective wives get together on their own.
2"Man-In-Motion"Jean MoodyZaneApril 5, 2013 (2013-04-05)N/A
Earnest's return after a five-year prison stretch ruffles some feathers, especially his ex-wife's.
3"Pass Interference"Jean MoodyZaneApril 12, 2013 (2013-04-12)N/A
Earnest runs into Portia and her new boyfriend; Brenda talks about moving in with Dmitri, but he's already thinking about moving on; and Woody considers hiring a sexy new singer for the club. Meanwhile, Spencer gets a visit at the radio station from his friend-with-benefits.
4"Playing the Field"Jean MoodyZaneApril 19, 2013 (2013-04-19)N/A
While Dmitri is with Brenda, he fantasizes about Lauren; Woody and the new singer mix business with pleasure; and Earnest is attracted to a comely bar patron. Meanwhile, Spencer has problems with just being considered a booty call to Jennifer; and Gabriel suspects there may be something more to the close relationship his wife has developed with his best friend.
5"Illegal Motion"Jean MoodyZaneApril 26, 2013 (2013-04-26)N/A
Earnest uncovers a secret about Rita, while the host of a dating show seeks eligible men and Lauren helps a high-school football player gain access to his adoption papers.
6"Red Flag"Jean MoodyZaneMay 3, 2013 (2013-05-03)N/A
Lauren is shocked by the person she finds at Dmitri's place after accepting his offer to meet for drinks; and Earnest grows closer to his sister-in-law, but a surprise visit from Portia distracts him. Meanwhile, Gabriel rekindles his romance with Aspen.
7"Turnover"Jean MoodyZaneMay 10, 2013 (2013-05-10)N/A
Lauren steps in to help after Dmitri receives some unsettling news; Woody decides he wants Kenya back; and Spencer finally steps up and makes known his feelings for Nandi. Meanwhile, a livid Brenda gets kicked to the curb.
8"Backfield in Motion"Jean MoodyZaneMay 17, 2013 (2013-05-17)N/A
While his friends search for a suicidal Earnest, ex-wife Portia finds him first; and an obsessed Brenda goes off the deep end when Dmitri calls a halt to their affair. Meanwhile, Aspen receives incriminating photos of Mocha and Chandler in the mail.
9"Offensive Holding"Jean MoodyZaneMay 24, 2013 (2013-05-24)N/A
Earnest and Portia's reunion heats up; Spencer and Nandi continue to deny their feelings for each other; and Dmitri worries about the possible end of his career and a woman he scorned. Meanwhile, Kenya files for divorce, sending a dejected Woody once again into the arms of Giselle.
10"Ball Control"Jean MoodyZaneMay 31, 2013 (2013-05-31)N/A
Sabrina, Kenya and Portia deal with feelings for the men in their lives; Brenda becomes more of a threat to Dmitri; and an angry Harris relents and reaches out to his biological father.
11"Possession"Jean MoodyZaneJune 7, 2013 (2013-06-07)N/A
Spencer's passionate night with Jennifer leads him to a startling revelation about Nandi, while Brenda employs voodoo in an effort to win back Dmitri. Later, Earnest seeks revenge against his brother.
12"Down By Contact"Jean MoodyZaneJune 14, 2013 (2013-06-14)N/A
Dmitri awaits word on his surgery; the Spencer-Nandi relationship heats up; and Giselle threatens to tell Kenya about her affair with Woody. Meanwhile, Brenda spies on Dmitri and Lauren; and Earnest's revenge plot thickens.
13"Two Minute Drill"Jean MoodyZaneJune 21, 2013 (2013-06-21)N/A
In the series finale, Dmitri's surprise birthday party for Lauren proves quite revelatory and surprising, especially after Brenda sneaks into the bash and takes a couple of partygoers hostage at gunpoint.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Zane's The Jump Off

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from Grokipedia
Zane's The Jump Off is an American erotic television series created, executive produced, and written by New York Times bestselling author . Premiering on the network on March 29, 2013, the series follows the lives of five successful men of color brothers in their thirties as they navigate intense personal bonds, professional ambitions, and complex romantic relationships with their partners. The show consists of a single season comprising 13 episodes, each airing on Friday nights at 11:00 PM ET/PT, and is produced by Planet Zane Productions with filming locations in , Florida. Set partly in the upscale "The Jump Off," the narrative explores themes of brotherhood, infidelity, career pressures, and sexual dynamics among the group, drawing from 's signature style of blending with explicit content. The principal cast includes as Dmitri Vance, an star; Sean Riggs as Earnest , a recently released rebuilding his life; J. Teddy Garces as Spencer Martinez, a ; Damian Toofeek Raven as Gabriel Turner; and Kinyumba Mutakabbir as Fenwick "Woody" Wood, a club owner dealing with marital issues. Supporting roles feature actors such as as the politically ambitious Chandler and Monique Cash as the radio host Nandi, highlighting the interconnected relationships within the fraternity circle. Zane's The Jump Off earned an average rating of 6.6 out of 10 on based on 242 user votes. The series builds on Zane's prior projects like , further establishing her as a key figure in African American erotic television content.

Overview and production

Premise

is an erotic drama series that follows five successful African American brothers in their thirties living in , Florida, as they balance their professional accomplishments with intricate personal relationships. The protagonists, archetypes such as an star and a businessman, form a tight-knit group that supports one another through life's challenges. Set against the vibrant urban backdrop of , the narrative highlights their immersion in the city's dynamic lifestyle, including frequent gatherings at the upscale nightclub "The Jump Off." At the core of the series is the brothers' bonding over universal relational dilemmas, including commitment, , forgiveness, and the complexities of romantic entanglements with women. These interactions explore the tensions and joys of adulthood, emphasizing themes of brotherhood and emotional vulnerability. In keeping with the format, the show incorporates explicit erotic elements, delving into themes of sexuality and intimate relationships that underscore the characters' personal growth and conflicts. This blend of dramatic storytelling and sensual content distinguishes the series within .

Development and production

Zane, the pseudonym of author Laferne Roberts, originated the concept for Zane's The Jump Off as a follow-up to her earlier series , leveraging her established background in writing erotic fiction that explores relationships and intimacy. As the series creator, served as and , personally penning the original screenplays for all 13 episodes to emphasize narratives centered on the experiences and perspectives of successful African American men navigating personal and romantic challenges. The project was greenlit by Cinemax, with production handled primarily by Planet Zane Productions, and it premiered on the network on March 29, 2013. Filming occurred in Miami, Florida, selected to align with the series' setting among a group of fraternity brothers in their thirties. The pilot episode, titled "First Down," was directed by Jean Moody, who brought a focus on dynamic interpersonal dynamics to the erotic drama format typical of Cinemax's After Dark programming. Zane's hands-on involvement extended to overseeing the production process, ensuring the adaptation of her literary style translated effectively to television while adhering to the network's guidelines for mature content.

Cast and characters

Main cast

Amin Joseph as Dmitri Vance
portrays Dmitri Vance, a successful ex-NFL enjoying a carefree lifestyle in but grappling with maturity and responsibility after discovering he has a 17-year-old child from a past relationship. The character embodies the challenges of fame and infidelity within the fraternity's tight-knit dynamic. Joseph, a Howard University Theatre Arts graduate, is best known for his recurring role as the drug dealer Louie in the series Snowfall (2017–2023), and has appeared in films such as G.I. Joe: Retaliation (2013) and the TV series Southland (2009–2013). Sean Riggs as Earnest Bishop
Sean Riggs plays Earnest Bishop, a brother who is released from and focuses on rebuilding his life, including attempting to reconcile with his ex-wife amid family tensions. His storyline highlights themes of redemption and relational strain central to the group's bond. Riggs, born in Chicago, Illinois, has notable roles in the series S.W.A.T. (2017–present), the comedy (2009–2010), and the film Lazarus (2021). J. Teddy Garces as Spencer Martinez
J. Teddy Garces depicts Spencer Martinez, a suave whose evolving romance with colleague Nandi deepens throughout the series, reflecting the fraternity's exploration of commitment and partnership. Garces, credited in various supporting roles, has guest-starred as a in Hollywood Heights (2012), a thug in The Cape (2011), and a bruiser in the The Guild (2009). Damian Toofeek Raven as Gabriel Turner
Damian Toofeek Raven stars as Gabriel Turner, a loyal member of the who navigates growing insecurities in his romantic entanglements, contributing to the group's collective struggles with trust and fidelity. Raven's previous credits include the role of Herb in the BET series Family Time (2019) and appearances in the erotic drama Sin City Diaries (2007). Kinyumba Mutakabbir as Fenwick "Woody" Wood
Kinyumba Mutakabbir embodies Fenwick "Woody" Wood, the owner of the "The Jump Off" where the brothers often gather, as he deals with the fallout from his marriage breakdown and seeks personal transformation amid temptations. A former standout and model, Mutakabbir previously played a supporting role in the film I Can Do Bad (2009).

Recurring cast

Wlehyonneh Toles portrays Kenya Woods, the wife of Fenwick "Woody" Wood, navigating significant marital strain amid her husband's infidelity and the group's social dynamics; she appears in nine episodes, providing emotional depth to subplots involving loyalty and reconciliation. Tanjareen Martin plays Lauren Strickland, a key figure in romantic entanglements, particularly as a love interest who heightens tensions in relationships; her role spans multiple episodes, contributing to explorations of emotional complexity and jealousy, drawing on her prior television experience in series like The Rev and guest spots on Sex Sent Me to the ER. Monique Cash embodies Nandi Carter, Spencer's primary love interest, whose arc delves into deepening affection and personal growth across at least eight episodes, emphasizing in romances. Johanna Quintero appears as Portia Bishop in twelve episodes, serving as a supportive secondary character tied to Earnest Bishop's storyline, often involved in group interactions that underscore themes of fidelity and friendship. Latifah Creswell's Brenda Lancaster drives dramatic pursuits as Dmitri's obsessive ex-girlfriend, featuring in episodes focused on and vengeful schemes that impact the core group's stability. Erika Jordan recurs as Jennifer in five episodes, portraying a peripheral figure whose appearances amplify subplots around temptation and casual encounters, with her background in modeling informing the character's sensual presence. Joe Torry portrays Chandler Bishop, Earnest's politically ambitious brother, whose involvement highlights family dynamics and ambition within the fraternity circle; he appears in recurring capacity.

Broadcast and episodes

Broadcast history

Zane's The Jump Off premiered on the network on March 29, 2013, airing new episodes weekly on Fridays at 11:00 p.m. ET. The series ran for one season comprising 13 half-hour episodes, with the broadcast on June 21, 2013. Following the conclusion of its first season, the show was not renewed for additional seasons. Distribution beyond its initial U.S. broadcast was limited, with availability in Canada under the same title starting from the premiere date. No widespread international airing via HBO affiliates or other platforms has been documented post-2013. As of 2025, the series is not actively streaming on major platforms like Tubi, though it may appear periodically on services such as Xfinity Stream. No official home media release, such as DVD by Lionsgate, has been confirmed.

Episode list

The first season of 's The Jump Off consists of 13 episodes, all written by series creator and originally aired on from March 29 to June 21, 2013.
EpisodeTitleOriginal air dateViewers (millions)
1First DownMarch 29, 2013N/A
2Man-in-MotionApril 5, 2013N/A
3Pass InterferenceApril 12, 2013N/A
4Playing the FieldApril 19, 2013N/A
5Illegal MotionApril 26, 2013N/A
6Red FlagMay 3, 2013N/A
7TurnoverMay 10, 2013N/A
8Backfield in MotionMay 17, 2013N/A
9Offensive HoldingMay 24, 2013N/A
10Ball ControlMay 31, 2013N/A
11PossessionJune 7, 2013N/A
12Down by ContactJune 14, 2013N/A
13Two-Minute DrillJune 21, 2013N/A

Episode 1: "First Down"

star Dmitri and his frat brothers celebrate Woody's recent marriage breakup at the "The Jump Off," where tensions and attractions begin to surface among the group. Meanwhile, bonds with her friends Nandi, Portia, and Sabrina over their shared experiences with relationships.

Episode 2: "Man-in-Motion"

Dmitri picks up his frat brother Earnest from after his release, leading Earnest to reconnect with his ex-wife Portia, while underlying tension builds between Earnest and another brother, Chandler. The episode explores the group's dynamics as Earnest readjusts to life outside.

Episode 3: "Pass Interference"

Earnest witnesses Portia with her new boyfriend, complicating his lingering feelings, as Brenda pushes to move in with Dmitri, who becomes interested in someone new. The brothers navigate personal interferences in their romantic pursuits.

Episode 4: "Playing the Field"

Gabriel grows suspicious of his wife Aspen and her friend Sabrina, while Nandi announces her involvement in a reality TV show opportunity. Dmitri begins fantasizing about , highlighting the group's shifting romantic interests.

Episode 5: "Illegal Motion"

Dmitri and draw closer amid growing chemistry, as Woody accuses of infidelity during a confrontation. A tragic outing deeply impacts Portia and Earnest, forcing them to confront their emotions.

Episode 6: "Red Flag"

Sparks ignite between Earnest and Portia, as well as between Nandi and Spencer, signaling potential new romances. Meanwhile, Chandler and Earnest clash over issues involving Sabrina, raising red flags in their friendships.

Episode 7: "Turnover"

Dmitri discovers he has a son and suffers an arm injury that threatens his , prompting reflection on his life choices. Spencer and Nandi strengthen their connection, while decides to kick Woody out of their home.

Episode 8: "Backfield in Motion"

Earnest's suicidal thoughts alarm his friends, who rally to support him, as resists Dmitri's attempts to end their relationship. Aspen uncovers truths about Chandler, setting off emotional backfield maneuvers within the group.

Episode 9: "Offensive Holding"

A night between Portia and Earnest leaves Earnest feeling unfulfilled and disappointed. begins stalking Dmitri obsessively, while takes decisive action by hiring a to address her marital issues.

Episode 10: "Ball Control"

secretly spies on Dmitri and during their time together. Sabrina, Portia, and share candid discussions about their relationships with the men in their lives, as Harris forms a closer bond with Dmitri.

Episode 11: "Possession"

Spencer and Nandi openly confess their love for each other, marking a possessive commitment. Woody and Kenya rekindle their passion temporarily, Brenda resorts to voodoo in her jealousy, and Earnest schemes against Chandler.

Episode 12: "Down by Contact"

Spencer and Nandi's relationship deepens with intensified affection. Brenda's escalating jealousy leads her to manipulate Gisele into targeting Woody and Kenya, resulting in confrontations and emotional downs from interpersonal contacts.

Episode 13: "Two-Minute Drill"

In , Dmitri organizes a surprise party for that brings unexpected revelations. Earnest and Sabrina hook up impulsively, and Chandler faces arrest, culminating the brothers' intertwined dramas in a high-stakes resolution.

Reception

Critical reception

Due to its niche status as an erotic drama series on , Zane's The Jump Off received limited coverage from professional critics. The series lacks an aggregate score on , with no consensus from critics available. On , it maintains a 6.6/10 rating based on 242 user votes, though professional critic reviews are absent from the platform. Among the sparse commentary, some observers praised Zane's writing for its sensual exploration of male friendships among African American characters, highlighting the authentic dynamics among the fraternity brothers.

Audience reception

Zane's The Jump Off garnered a mixed response, earning an average rating of 6.6 out of 10 on based on 242 user votes as of November 2025. Viewers frequently praised the series for its portrayal of relatable relationships among the protagonists, with one reviewer highlighting the "magical pairing" of characters Nandi and Spencer that "light up the screen," alongside the show's highly erotic scenes. However, common criticisms centered on pacing issues, where some felt the narrative dragged in mid-season episodes despite strong early momentum. Fan communities have engaged with the series on platforms like and , particularly in discussions post-2013 release focusing on its representation of sexuality. Subreddits such as r/WatchItForThePlot and r/softcorenights often highlight specific explicit scenes while appreciating the show's role in depicting African American men's intimate lives and fraternity bonds. On , fans have echoed these sentiments, celebrating the series as a rare exploration of vulnerability in erotic contexts. These conversations underscore the show's appeal to niche audiences seeking diverse narratives in adult-oriented programming. The series' cultural legacy lies in its pioneering status as the first erotic television series focused on men of color and their interpersonal dynamics, building on creator 's established reputation in urban erotica. 's substantial fanbase from her bestselling books, including titles like Addicted, significantly boosted initial viewership, drawing loyal readers to the . It influenced subsequent erotic dramas by emphasizing authentic portrayals of relationships and sexuality, contributing to a broader wave of inclusive adult content on cable networks. This pattern reflected the series' niche appeal within Cinemax's late-night lineup, where explicit content drove initial curiosity but sustained interest varied.

References

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  11. https://www.yidio.com/show/zanes-the-jump-off
  12. https://www.bookreporter.com/authors/zane
  13. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2555724/episodes?season=1
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  19. https://www.tvinsider.com/people/sean-riggs/
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  27. https://www.instagram.com/zanesthejumpoff/?hl=en
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  29. https://reelgood.com/show/zanes-the-jump-off-2013
  30. https://www.xfinity.com/stream/entity/5920130281464772112
  31. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2555724/reviews/
  32. https://www.reddit.com/r/WatchItForThePlot/comments/126p4yc/natasha_rogers_in_zanes_the_jump_off_s1e6/
  33. https://www.allamericanspeakers.com/speakers/401541/Zane
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