Issa Rae Shedding Light on Hollywood's Historical Mistreatment of Black Creatives

During a powerful keynote at SXSW 2025, Issa Rae exposed Hollywood's long-standing neglect of Black television history as she discussed her upcoming HBO docuseries "Seen & Heard."

Rae fearlessly criticized major studios for exploiting Black audiences and then abandoning them when convenient, emphasizing the need to confront this uncomfortable reality. In her forthcoming two-part documentary on HBO and Max, Rae provides a platform for prominent Black creators to share their firsthand experiences and shed light on the industry's exploitative practices.

Featuring interviews with icons like Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, and Norman Lear, "Seen & Heard" delves into the personal journeys and struggles faced by these trailblazing figures. The documentary aims to offer a comprehensive history of the industry's reliance on Black talent while highlighting the lack of recognition and compensation received in return.

Rae's unwavering dedication to diversity and inclusion initiatives in Hollywood was palpable as she wittily remarked on the challenges faced by such efforts. She emphasized the crucial need for authentic representation in the industry, exemplified by her recent decision to cancel an event at the Kennedy Center due to concerns about industry values aligning with her own.

By bravely confronting uncomfortable truths and amplifying marginalized voices, Issa Rae continues to pave the way for meaningful change in the entertainment industry. Stay tuned for the premiere of "Seen & Heard" for an eye-opening journey through Hollywood's complex relationship with Black creatives.