HBO has officially ordered a pilot for a new comedy series from Issa Rae, following her critically acclaimed success with Insecure. However, fans hoping for an immediate full season will have to wait; the project has only been greenlit for a pilot episode so far.
According to a report by Deadline, Rae has landed a pilot order for an untitled half-hour male friendship comedy. Because the project is currently in the pilot phase, HBO will evaluate the standalone episode before deciding whether to move forward with a full season.
Rae previously wrote and created Insecure for HBO. It is a comedy series partially based on the actress’ 2011 web series Awkward Black Girl. Starring Rae herself, Insecure follows the everyday challenges and relatable experiences of a modern African-American woman.
Insecure has received widespread critical acclaim throughout its five-season run, including eight Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Season 4. Meanwhile, Rae received three Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy as well as three Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, among other accolades.
Issa Rae’s new HBO comedy follows a barber and aspiring sports manager in Las Vegas
Issa Rae’s new Untitled Male Friendship Show pilot for HBO centers on Menzel, a 30-year-old barber and aspiring sports manager, and his best friend JB, a rising boxing talent. Together, they navigate the cut-throat world of professional boxing in Las Vegas in their pursuit of success. The show will also explore themes of insecurity, loneliness, and ambition.
Prentice Penny, who has previously collaborated with Rae on Insecure, will direct the pilot and also serve as the showrunner.
In addition to Insecure and the upcoming pilot, Rae has also appeared in another HBO show called A Black Lady Sketch Show, created by Robin Thede. The 41-year-old actress also served as an executive producer on the show. Additionally, she created, wrote, and executive produced Rap Sh!t, a comedy show about two friends who form a rap group in Miami.
This article was originally reported by Namrata Ghosh on ComingSoon.
