Issa Rae is heading back to HBO. The network has ordered a pilot for an untitled half-hour comedy from the creator of Insecure, centering on male friendship and the high-stakes world of professional boxing in Las Vegas.
Written and executive produced by Rae, the pilot follows Menzel, a 30-year-old barber, aspiring sports manager and professional best friend to JB, an up-and-coming boxer, as the two navigate ambition, insecurity, loneliness and the double-edged sword of success.
Prentice Penny, a key collaborator of Rae’s on Insecure, returns as showrunner, executive producer and pilot director. The reteam comes as the duo are currently on the road together for Insecure: The 10th Anniversary Tour, a 13-city live conversation tour celebrating a decade since the Peabody Award-winning series premiered. Featuring candid conversations, behind-the-scenes stories and select appearances from cast members Yvonne Orji, Jay Ellis and Natasha Rothwell, the tour runs through October 8 in Inglewood, California.
Jax Clark executive produces for Hoorae alongside A Penny For Your Thoughts and Jonathan Berry and Dave Becky for 3 Arts Entertainment.
The order marks Rae’s return to HBO following a run of projects at the network that includes Insecure, the Peabody Award-winning comedy she created, starred in and showran for five seasons; A Black Lady Sketch Show, which she executive produced for Robin Thede; and Rap Sh!t, her two-season Miami-set music-world comedy starring Aida Osman and KaMillion. Earlier this year, Rae moved on from her overall deal at HBO to a three-year first-look film and television production deal with Paramount, making this new project a notable return to her longtime creative home.
Originally read on Deadline.