Issa Rae Continues to Build Her Own Studio Amidst Hollywood Challenges

Insecure creator and star Issa Rae opened up about the challenges she faces in Hollywood and her plans to build her own studio at the Fast Company Innovation Festival in Manhattan on Thursday. Despite her success, Rae has experienced the cancellation of several shows she produced, including Rap Shit, Sweet Life, and A Black Lady Sketch Show.

The Current Landscape in Hollywood

Rae described the current landscape in Hollywood as challenging, stating that the market has changed significantly. She believes the industry is also waiting for the results of the U.S. presidential election. "The industry is just kind of waiting," Rae said. She mentioned that her email is flooded every week with people looking for work, emphasizing the difficulty of the current situation.

Building Her Own Studio

Rae, currently under a five-year overall deal with WarnerMedia, launched Hoorae Media in September 2020. Her goal is to have more control over the projects produced, with a particular emphasis on stories written by Black creatives and starring Black talent. "It's about making sure that we have hands on every part of the process," Rae said. She hopes that this will ultimately lead to a studio or a form of distribution that focuses on Black stories.

Prioritizing Black Stories

Rae stressed the importance of prioritizing Black stories, stating that there aren't many Black stories on the air currently. She believes that networks and studios should share the same values, which she implements in her work at Hoorae Media.

Analysis

Rae's decision to build her own studio stems from the challenges she faces in the industry, particularly the lack of Black stories on air. The current landscape in Hollywood makes it difficult for creators like Rae to get their projects produced. Building her own studio allows her to have more control over the projects she produces and prioritize Black stories.

Expert Opinions

Stacy L. Smith, founder and director of the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, commented on the importance of prioritizing Black stories. "Representation matters, and having Black stories on air is essential for a diverse and inclusive media landscape," Smith said.

Human Interest Element

Rae's determination to build her own studio highlights her dedication to representing Black talent and creatives in the industry. Her experience with cancelled shows and the difficulty of getting projects produced emphasizes the need for more representation and control in the industry.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges she faces in Hollywood, Issa Rae remains determined to build her own studio and prioritize Black stories. Her experience in the industry highlights the need for more representation and control for Black creatives and talent.