Issa Rae Highlights Black Television History in New HBO Docuseries

AUSTIN, Texas — Issa Rae is set to shine a light on the history of Black television with her upcoming HBO docuseries, “Seen & Heard,” which she discussed extensively during a keynote conversation at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference on March 8, 2025.

The series aims to explore how major studios have historically engaged with Black audiences, often utilizing their support only to discard these viewers when it becomes convenient. Moderated by Rotten Tomatoes’ Jacqueline Coley, Rae emphasized the importance of documenting this pattern, stating, “It sounds like a conspiracy, but producing the documentary highlighted just how that trend unfolded over the years.”

Rae further elaborated on the significance of presenting this history through the perspectives of those involved in its making. “It’s one thing to say it, but to have actual creators, showrunners, and writers chronicle this history is undeniable. We wanted to create a comprehensive account that showcases how the success of their networks was built on our backs, yet we have very little to show for it. It’s tragic, and history repeats itself every time,” said Rae.

Prominent figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Shonda Rhimes, and Ava DuVernay share their insights in the docuseries. While these icons are already well-known, Rae noted that many unveiled lesser-known aspects of their journeys during interviews for the project. “They have these incredible stories, and they may not have been asked questions about their journey in this particular way before,” she explained.

Rae also reflected on the impact of reality television on her career path, describing it as her “villain origin story.” Initially inspired by Black sitcoms like “Moesha” and “Girlfriends,” she was frustrated by the lack of Black scripted shows on air in the mid-to-late 2000s. “The disappearance of those shows infuriated me,” she said. “The advent of reality television, particularly in its portrayal of Black women, upset me. It was all we had, and while I gathered friends to watch, it felt like ‘Let’s watch this bulls**t.’ It was hate-watching.”

A pivotal moment came from watching a scene on “Flavor of Love,” where a contestant was denied a bathroom break and subsequently suffered a humiliating incident. “I realized, ‘This is humiliating, and this is all Black women have on television right now.’ That’s when I started film blogging, voicing my frustration. Someone told me, ‘If you’re talking so much mess, why don’t you create something?’ So, shout out to that person,” Rae recalled.

The documentary begins with its world premiere at SXSW, delving deeply into the dynamics of Black representation in Hollywood. The project was initially announced in 2020. Rae remarked, “Black people have such a rich, yet often unrecognized history in Hollywood. We have defined American culture and influenced generations worldwide.”

Among the series’ contributors, Wendy Raquel Robinson spoke on the enduring reality facing Black television creators. During a podcast appearance in 2024, she claimed, “I feel like I started three networks. We [were on] a flagship show,” referring to her time on “The Steve Harvey Show.” She highlighted how Black shows were foundational to networks’ success before subsequently being abandoned.

Rae’s documentary underscores the industry’s pattern of leveraging Black programming without providing ongoing support. “It’s vital to acknowledge the contributions we’ve made and ensure they are recognized and celebrated,” she concluded, setting a powerful tone for discussions surrounding Black narratives in television.

“Seen & Heard” aims to create a conversation about representation and the importance of honoring the legacy of Black contributors in the entertainment industry.