Issa Rae Signs Major Three-Year First-Look Deal With Paramount
The creator and producer has expanded her production footprint with the entertainment giant, positioning herself as a key creative partner across film and television divisions.
Issa Rae has signed a three-year first-look film and television production deal with Paramount, formalizing an ongoing creative relationship between her production company, Hoorae Film & Television, and the studio. Under the agreement, Paramount will receive first consideration on all film and television projects developed through Hoorae before the company takes pitches elsewhere.
The deal covers both theatrical films and television programming, positioning Rae as a producing partner across multiple divisions within Paramount. She will collaborate with Paramount Motion Picture Group co-chairs Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, as well as Don Granger, president of the Motion Picture Group, and Matt Thunell, president of Paramount Television Studios.
Expanding Her Creative Reach
Rae, best known as the creator and star of HBO’s Insecure, has significantly expanded her production portfolio in recent years. Through Hoorae, she has produced acclaimed series including Rap Sh!t and Sweet Life: Los Angeles, while also appearing in feature films such as The Photograph, The Lovebirds, and Barbie.
The Paramount agreement marks a continuation of Rae’s strategic shift toward studio-backed producing roles that amplify her creative vision across multiple platforms. The deal does not restrict her from pursuing acting opportunities outside of Paramount, allowing her to maintain flexibility in her performing career.
Studio Partnership Statement
Goldberg and Greenstein expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: “Issa is a true creative force whose work consistently feels fresh, funny, and deeply human. She epitomizes the kind of exceptional artist we’re proud to partner with across film and TV to break new ground in elevated storytelling.”
Rae shared her excitement about the next chapter. “I’m excited to begin this next chapter with the team at Paramount and to continue telling stories that reflect the communities and voices that have supported my work,” she said.
The partnership underscores Paramount’s commitment to developing relationships with prominent creative voices in the entertainment industry, as the studio continues to build its slate of original content across theatrical and streaming platforms.
