Issa Rae Inks Multiyear First-Look Film & TV Deal With Paramount

Issa Rae is stepping into a new era. The nine-time Emmy-nominated writer, producer, and actor has signed a three-year first-look film and television deal with Paramount, further cementing her status as one of Hollywood’s most influential creative voices. The agreement, which quietly began last month, aligns Rae with the David Ellison-led studio across both film and TV.

Under the deal, Rae will collaborate closely with Paramount Pictures co-chairs Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, Paramount Television Studios president Matt Thunell, and Motion Picture Group president Don Granger to develop and produce original projects.

“I’m so looking forward to starting this next chapter with the incredible team at Paramount to tell stories for and by the diverse communities that have supported my work over the years,” Rae said in a statement.

Goldberg and Greenstein echoed that enthusiasm, calling Rae “a true creative force whose work consistently feels fresh, funny, and deeply human,” adding that she represents the kind of artist Paramount is proud to partner with across film and television as the studio continues to push elevated storytelling forward.

A South Los Angeles native, Rae rose to prominence as the creator and star of HBO’s Insecure, a cultural touchstone that earned multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations along with a Peabody Award. Following the show’s success, she launched her media company Hoorae, built on a mission to expand representation and break boundaries in film, television, and digital storytelling.

Hoorae’s growing slate includes The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl, A Black Lady Sketch Show, Sweet Life: Los Angeles, Rap Sh!t, Project Greenlight, Seen & Heard, and the Sony R-rated sleeper comedy One of Them Days.

Rae’s recent film credits further highlight her range and momentum, with roles in American Fiction, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and Barbie. With this new Paramount partnership, Rae is poised to continue shaping culture—on her own terms—while amplifying stories that reflect the communities and perspectives often left off-screen.

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