June 23 brings with it the premiere of the fifth and final season of OWN’s flagship series, ‘Greenleaf.’

The popular church drama, anchored by Merle Dandridge (Grace Greenleaf), Lynn Whitfield (Lady Mae Greenleaf), and Keith David (Bishop Greenleaf), the show has gripped viewers with its juicy take on what happens beyond the pulpit of one of Memphis’ most prominent (fictional) megachurches.

Now, it’s set to place a period on this installment’s final chapter.

*Spoilers inside*

Following its dramatic season 4 climax, the next run sees the Greenleafs attempt to maintain a united front in the face of losing their church to Bob Whitmore and Harmony & Hope Ministries.  As family secrets creep up and create foundation-shaking fractures in the Greenleaf home (see:  divorce, alleged murders, and more), season cinco is shaping up to be the must-see set of the franchise.

That sentiment was reiterated by the show’s creator, Craig Wright, in a private press conference hosted by OWN.  That Grape Juice was among distinguished press invited to quiz Wright alongside the main cast about juicy details for the ‘Greenleaf’ final run.

When asked on their favorite standout moments from the forthcoming season, Whitfield exclusively told TGJ:

”I’m most interested in Bishop’s [Keith David] storyline. It’s just so interesting, saddening, and poignant for how the world goes with aging and losing a position; your place and status,” she said.  To see this beautiful, powerful Black man [who is also] a spiritual leader and head of household’s energy.  He’s home now and not sitting behind this big desk with people coming in to check with him. It’s interesting to see how he continues to deal with his journey and how he manifests his purpose to his family and congregation.”

Dandridge (Grace) echoed the sentiment:

“I was very moved by [Bishop’s] forgiving heart in the previous season and how he so quickly embraced his daughter as his daughter [as he later learned Grace was not his biological child]. How he moved past all the things his wife had presented to him and the strength he exhibited now moving forward into this season, his entire world has completely erupted,” she said. “To see someone at that time in their life, when they have established so much, to have that fortitude and courage to move forward to ride the wave to see God can do a whole new thing. He is following that faithfully. That’s really powerful.”

*****

‘Greenleaf’ season 5 kicks off tonight, June 23rd at 9/8c.  Tell us:

Your thoughts?