In her interview with Porter Magazine, Issa Rae exudes a magnetic blend of humor, determination, and depth that transcends her roles as a writer, producer, and actor. Boasting recent successes in the spotlight with movies like “Barbie” and “American Fiction,” Rae’s journey is a testament to her ability to challenge Hollywood stereotypes, navigate setbacks, and build an inspiring career that extends far beyond the screen.
Rae’s infectious humor, a trait she attributes to her funny family, becomes a gateway to connecting with people, forming the basis of her love language. Behind the laughter, though, stands a Hollywood force with a decade-plus career, as seen by the shelf stacked with awards in the backdrop of her interview.
From her breakout web series, “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” Rae navigated the evolving landscape of web TV in 2011, leveraging its success into acclaimed HBO shows like “Insecure” and “Rap Sh!t.” Her journey includes standout roles in blockbuster hits, such as last year’s “Barbie” and the much-discussed “American Fiction” in 2024. This multifaceted talent, as she describes it, is indeed about her “shit.”
Rooted in her Senegalese and American heritage, Rae’s upbringing, education at Stanford, and the founding of a theater company focused on telling Black stories foreshadow the diverse creative portfolio she manages today. Notably, Hoorae Media, her production company, continues this commitment to authentic storytelling.
Despite her thriving ventures, including the recent launch of Viarae prosecco, Rae is most fired up about her writing projects in 2024. The challenges posed by industry disruptions fuel her renewed focus on crafting meaningful narratives, an approach inspired by the clarity gained during last year’s writers’ and actors’ strikes.
In “American Fiction,” Rae tackles the complexities of the publishing industry and media’s treatment of Black writers through her character, Sintara Golden. The film explores the tension between success and perpetuating harmful stereotypes, providing Rae with a relatable and satirical platform to express her views on representation in the industry.
Rae’s journey in Hollywood, marked by triumphs and setbacks, highlights her resilience. From a failed comedy pilot at Shondaland to the creation of “Insecure” with HBO, she embraces the misses and setbacks as essential steps toward her ultimate success.
Expressing concern about the changing TV landscape, Rae addresses the diminishing prioritization of Black stories and diversity. The impact of streaming dominance and profit-driven influences raises questions about the future of authentic representation, prompting Rae to contemplate independence to protect her creative vision.
Looking ahead, Rae envisions a transition toward service and philanthropy in the next decade. Fresh from a trip to Senegal, she hints at a project tied to her desire to contribute meaningfully beyond the entertainment industry. Amidst the uncertainties of Hollywood’s future, Rae remains steadfast in her commitment to enjoying the journey and collaborating with a diverse array of talents.
In Issa Rae’s world, success is not just measured by accolades but by the joy she finds in her work and the meaningful impact she aspires to make, ensuring her Hollywood journey is as fulfilling as it is impressive.
Click here for full cover story
TEAM
Author: @oteghauwagba
Photographer: @deirdredeirdredeirdre
Stylist: @herinchoi1
Hair: @felicialeatherwood
Makeup: @joannasimkin
Art Director: @lizzy.cooney
English