When I first saw the announcement for “The Impact Atlanta,” I did not plan on tuning in because I am not the biggest fan of Ariana Fletcher — one of the cast members. But after seeing several Twitter users rave about it, I had to tune in and watch it for myself as an avid reality tv show watcher.
The show is based in Atlanta, Georgia, as it follows the lives of influencers and rappers. The show is ultimately about Black culture and its influence.
The first episode introduced the cast members: Jayda Cheaves, Ariana “Ari” Fletcher, Dionte “Arrogant Tae” Gray, Lakeyah Robinson and Destiny “Dess Dior” Bailey.
The cast is considered Atlanta royalty and has a combined total of 18.5 million Instagram followers.
I was immediately hooked from the opening scenes and the production of the show.
The show gives a glimpse into the behind the scenes of what life is like for influencers. On social media, only the final product is shown. Though, this show gives a deep dive into the cast’s creative processes and how the content we see daily gets made.
The show also showcases the cast’s chemistry.
Jayda Cheaves, an influencer and entrepreneur, is known for her hair extension business, clothing line and as the ex-girlfriend of rapper Lil Baby. Her friendship with Fletcher, Gray and Bailey is featured prominently.
The show seems to flow naturally for them, and does not appear as scripted as other reality tv shows. This puts fifth cast member Lakeyah Robinson in an odd place.
Robinson is not seen on social media with the other cast members so I am unsure of her place on the show.
I am a big fan of her music, and there’s no doubt that she has influence, however it seems production just threw her into the mix because she is signed to their record label.
Within the influencers’ friend group, there are two fashion designers — Shane Justin and Greg “Gswuoo” Wright.
Justin and Wright have a large influence in Atlanta with clothing stores across the United States and millions of social media followers.
The designers made a brief appearance in the first episode, but I feel like they would have made a better fit as cast members opposed to Robinson.
Overall, if you are into reality TV and influencer culture, this show is a must watch. It gives an inside scoop on how the day-to-day lives of influencers are.
“The Impact Atlanta” is streaming exclusively on BET+.




