Netflix’s Beauty in Black has no shortage of power struggles and emotional twists—but one character is stealing the spotlight in 2025: Varney, played by Terrell Carter. The ambitious lawyer has become one of the most talked-about roles in streaming dramas, trending across social platforms and fueling fan debates. But what makes Carter’s portrayal so magnetic? Let’s go behind the scenes.
How Terrell Carter Prepared for Varney: Behind the Scenes of Beauty in Black
Terrell Carter didn’t step into the role of Varney unprepared. Drawing from years of experience in theater and music, along with notable television roles such as Empire, he approached the character with focus and dedication.
He studied the psychology of ambition and ethics to capture the mindset of a lawyer navigating the tension between personal loyalty and career drive. Carter also collaborated closely with the show’s writers and directors to ensure Varney’s conflicts felt realistic and layered.
Using subtle performance techniques—from nuanced tone shifts to expressive micro-gestures—he conveyed the weight of moral conflict in each scene. His background in Tyler Perry productions like Diary of a Mad Black Woman equipped him with the ability to balance intensity with human vulnerability, qualities that Varney embodies throughout the series.
For readers interested in learning more about his background and journey, you can read Terrell Carter’s full biography here.
Key Varney Storylines in Beauty in Black
Several story arcs in Beauty in Black, Seasons 1 and 2, have established Varney as a breakout character. His romance with his boss’s son became a widely discussed subplot, sparking fan theories across TikTok and Reddit. Episodes highlighting his struggle between career ambition and ethics showcase Varney wrestling with loyalty to clients versus doing what is right, creating tension and empathy for the character.
Additionally, Varney’s navigation of power dynamics among family members and professional rivals adds layers of intrigue and keeps viewers engaged. Entertainment outlets such as People and TVLine have featured Varney in their “must-watch characters of 2025” lists, reflecting the character’s growing prominence.
Terrell Carter’s Impact on Fans and LGBTQ+ Representation
Representation plays a central role in Varney’s significance, and Carter ensures the character is much more than a background figure.
As an openly gay actor, he brings depth and authenticity to Varney’s relationships, making the portrayal both relatable and impactful. Fans have expressed on Instagram and Twitter how rare it is to see a powerful, multidimensional gay character in a mainstream Netflix series, and how meaningful Varney’s presence is.
Beyond the screen, Carter engages with the LGBTQ+ community through panels, interviews, and community events, strengthening his connection with fans and amplifying the cultural relevance of the character.
How Varney Reflects Terrell Carter’s Career and Life
Varney serves as a reflection of Terrell Carter’s journey from gospel stages in Buffalo to Hollywood streaming success. Carter’s previous work on Empire prepared him for the challenges of portraying complex TV drama roles, while his music career sharpened his emotional storytelling skills.
His real-life advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation resonates through Varney’s fight for respect, recognition, and power. This blending of personal experience and professional growth makes the character both believable and unforgettable, allowing viewers to connect with him on multiple levels.
Fast Facts About Terrell Carter’s Varney Role
Varney is Terrell Carter’s most recognized role to date and has amassed a dedicated fanbase on social media platforms. The character regularly trends on TikTok fan edits, and entertainment blogs throughout 2025 have highlighted Varney as one of the top breakout Netflix characters. The storyline embodies ambition, identity, and representation, making it a culturally significant figure in contemporary streaming television.
FAQs About Terrell Carter’s Varney Role
Q: Why is Varney so popular in Beauty in Black?
A: Viewers are drawn to Varney’s mix of ambition, intelligence, and moral complexity, all brought to life through Carter’s nuanced performance.
Q: Is Varney based on Terrell Carter’s real life?
A: No, Varney is a fictional character. However, Carter’s personal journey and openness about his identity influence the authenticity of his portrayal.
Q: How can I watch Terrell Carter as Varney?
A: Beauty in Black is streaming on Netflix, with Season 2 airing in two parts from 2025 to 2026.
Q: Does Terrell Carter have other projects besides Beauty in Black?
A: Yes, alongside acting, he continues his music career and has recently released his album Mr. Carter in 2025.