Over the past couple of years, there has been a trend with studios, networks, and streamers canceling series that feature Black leads. They’ve also been letting go of executives who were hired to ensure there were more diverse actors and creators being hired. All that to say, for many Black actors and creators, such as Issa Rae, there isn’t a lot of optimism that the industry is a more hospitable place for Black voices in 2024. In fact, it might force her (and others) to leave the typical studio system behind.
Speaking to Net-a-Porter, Issa Rae talked about her role in the Oscar-nominated film, “American Fiction,” as well as discussed the issue of being a Black performer and creator in Hollywood. As you might expect, Rae isn’t very happy with what she’s seeing, particularly on the TV side of things, where she’s been successful with shows like “Insecure” and “Rap Sh!t.”
“You’re seeing so many Black shows get canceled, you’re seeing so many executives — especially on the DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion] side — get canned,” Rae said. “You’re seeing very clearly now that our stories are less of a priority.”
She added, “I am pessimistic because there’s no one holding anybody accountable — and I can, sure, but also at what cost? I can’t force you to make my stuff. It’s made me take more steps to try to be independent down the line if I have to.”
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Whenever you talk about race and diversity in Hollywood, it’s a tricky situation. There are places (particularly with some awards shows and festivals) where diversity is thriving. But there are also examples, such as recent studies, where it shows that diversity is either leveling off or showing regression.
So, what’s Issa Rae going to do now? Well, she’s going to continue to work on projects she’s passionate about and see what happens.
“I’ve had faith in the talent I have to captivate a very specific audience – and I think about that audience constantly,” she said. “I’m writing a couple of different projects – one for myself and one to produce and create with others – and I’ve been feeling so inspired and excited to get back at it. The industry is in flux, so it’s really inspired me to focus and hone in on what stories I want to tell. I’ve been laser-focused on getting these projects up and running.”
Hopefully, things begin to show real change in Hollywood and more diverse voices are able to succeed. Until then, we have Issa Rae trying to bring light to the issues facing Black people trying to tell stories in Hollywood.