Issa Rae’s Impact On Media & Beyond

In the media industry, Issa Rae stands out as a true powerhouse. Her journey from YouTube series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ to critically acclaimed HBO series ‘Insecure’ to feature films like ‘The Photograph’ showcases her multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to amplifying black voices and experiences.

But Issa’s entrepreneurial resume extends beyond the realms of the entertainment industry, as exemplified by her latest poject, Viarae, a Prosecco brand that has recently graced the market and is already receiving rave reviews on social media.

The emergence and success of black-owned brands like Viarae in the food and beverage industry not only enrich the market with unique flavors and experiences but also contribute to a more equitable and representative industry.

Rae often expresses her commitment to community development, particularly in the context of her beloved hometown of Los Angeles. This commitment is not merely a sentiment but finds tangible expression through her strategic investments in various ventures. Most notably, she is a partner in California-based coffee shop, ‘Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen.’ More than just a coffee shop, it represents a hub for community building, nurturing connections and a sense of belonging.

In the animation space, Issa Rae has broken new ground by lending her voice to characters that bring diversity and authenticity to the screen. The Academy Award-winning animated short film ‘Hair Love,’ in which Issa provided voice work, not only showcased her vocal talents but also addressed important themes around black hair and family dynamics.

The subsequent collaboration with HBO for the animated series ‘Young Love’ continues the story of the ‘Hair Love’ family and explores the complexities of parenthood in a relatable and humorous way. Issa is the voice of Angela alongside Kid Cudi, who is the voice of Stephen, as millennial parents trying to raise their young daughter, Zuri, and navigate the trials and tribulations of life, with love.

It seems Issa is enjoying voice acting and will likely be the voice of many more animated characters to come. Her portrayal of Marvel’s first pregnant superhero, Jessica Drew (Spider-Woman), in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ is yet another testament to her dedication to breaking stereotypes and pushing boundaries.

The success of ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ is another example of Issa’s dedication to taking up space within media. Collaborating with creator Robin Thede, the show achieved critical acclaim, winning three Emmy Awards and earning recognition for its achievements in editing and directing.

Many women of color were given a leg up through this project, such as Skye Townsend, who is the daughter of Robert Townsend and definitely inherited the funny gene. Being a main cast member of ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ took her career to another level, deservingly.

It was reported that the series won back-to-back trophies for outstanding picture editing for variety programming, with Daysha Broadway, Stephanie Filo and Jessica Hernández as the first team of women of color to earn the prize, and in 2022, Bridget Stokes became the first black woman to win for directing a variety series.

Issa Rae’s claim to fame, ‘Insecure,’ established her as a leading force in the media industry and paved the way for her media company, Hoorae Media. Not only did ‘Insecure’ increase Issa’s stock, it put Yvonne Orji on the map, too. And with successful shows like ‘Rap Sh!t’ coming out of Hoorae, she continues to provide a platform for black women, allowing artists like KaMillion and Aida Osman to shine. KaMillion and Aida play fictional rap duo, Shawna & Mia, modeled after real-life rap duo and executive producers of the show, City Girls, as they try to make it in the music industry.

Raedio, Issa’s record label, hasn’t put out much press, but we anticipate the project will likely merge music and film as Issa gets her feet wet in the music world.

Issa Rae’s contributions to the media industry are a celebration of representation. By creating content and products that authentically reflect the culture and experiences of black women and the broader black community, she has set a standard for inclusivity, authenticity, and collaboration.