In an insightful keynote conversation at SXSW, actress and producer Issa Rae discussed her upcoming HBO documentary series, "Seen & Heard." This project delves into the often-overlooked history of Black television, exploring how major studios have historically profited from Black audiences while frequently neglecting their needs. The docuseries aims to highlight this pattern through interviews with prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Rae emphasized the importance of documenting these stories, revealing a side of television history that has been largely ignored or dismissed as conspiracy theories until now.

Rae's exploration of this subject matter began when she noticed a troubling trend in the way networks treated Black audiences. Through extensive research, she discovered undeniable evidence that many networks built their success on the backs of Black creators and viewers. The series features interviews with influential personalities such as Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, and Norman Lear. These individuals share their personal experiences and provide fresh perspectives on the challenges they faced in the industry.

The documentary also reflects on how reality TV indirectly influenced Rae's passion for storytelling. Initially inspired by sitcoms like "Moesha" and "Girlfriends," Rae felt disheartened when these shows disappeared from the airwaves. In their place, reality television filled the void, often portraying Black women in negative ways. A particularly memorable moment that solidified her resolve was a scene from "Flavor of Love," where a contestant was humiliated on national television. This incident motivated Rae to take action, leading her to start film blogging and eventually creating content of her own.

Through "Seen & Heard," Rae hopes to honor the contributions of Black creators while advocating for positive change in the entertainment industry. By showcasing the untold stories of those who paved the way, the series aims to inspire future generations and push the industry toward greater inclusivity and recognition of Black talent.