HBO has released the official trailer for its upcoming two-part documentary Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television. Executive produced by Issa Rae through HOORAE Media alongside Ark Media, the project has been years in the making and will debut Tuesday, September 9 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT, followed by part two on Wednesday, September 10. Both installments will also stream on Max beginning September 9.
Directed by Giselle Bailey (The Legend of the Underground) and Phil Bertelsen (Who Killed Malcolm X?), the film dives into the history and cultural impact of Black representation on television. Through archival footage, never-before-seen behind-the-scenes material from shows such as Moesha, and new interviews with some of the industry’s most influential voices, the documentary traces the evolution of Black television — from early stereotypes to today’s more authentic, layered portrayals.
What the Trailer Shows
The trailer teases a blend of classic television moments and intimate behind-the-scenes perspectives. Viewers are not only reminded of iconic series like Good Times, The Jeffersons, and In Living Color, but also get rare looks inside the making of Black television history. One standout moment comes when a participant recalls working in an all-Black writers’ room — a statement that sets the tone for the series’ exploration of authorship, ownership, and how much has truly changed in the industry.
Episode Breakdown
- Part One: Seen
Premieres Tuesday, September 9 (9:00–10:14 p.m. ET/PT)
Covers decades of Black television, showing how characters moved from visibility to influence, even as many stories were originally crafted by non-Black creators. The episode spotlights the rise of Black-led shows that confronted social issues and helped drive culture forward. - Part Two: Heard
Premieres Wednesday, September 10 (9:00–10:30 p.m. ET/PT)
Focuses on ownership of the narrative, highlighting examples such as Shonda Rhimes’ casting practices, Oprah Winfrey’s control of her brand, and Issa Rae’s digital-to-TV success. It also looks to the future, featuring Lena Waithe’s mentorship programs and the ongoing push for inclusive storytelling across all areas of production.
Featured Voices
The documentary features appearances from Issa Rae, Oprah Winfrey, Shonda Rhimes, Tyler Perry, Tracee Ellis Ross, Ava DuVernay, Debbie Allen, Lena Waithe, Kenya Barris, Mara Brock Akil, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Norman Lear, Byron Allen, Swizz Beatz, and more.
Behind the Project
HBO Documentary Films presents Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television, an Ark Media Production in association with HOORAE Media. A film by Giselle Bailey; directed and produced by Bailey and Phil Bertelsen. Executive producers include Issa Rae, Montrel McKay, John Maggio, Rachel Dretzin, John Ealer, Jonathan Berry, and Dave Becky. For HBO, executive producers are Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Sara Rodriguez.
Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television premieres September 9 and 10 on HBO and will be available to stream on Max.