Issa Rae, the acclaimed actress and creator, has become a notable answer in the New York Times crossword puzzle, a fact that she embraces with enthusiasm. Rae, 40, took to Instagram to share her excitement at receiving this honor, admitting that she’s “truly most happy” at being given a spotlight so regularly. In the puzzle, her numbers have increased almost exponentially. This increase comes on the heels of her unforgettable performance as President Barbie in Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster, “Barbie,” which has turned out to be one of the top earners of Margot’s career.
Rae has earned major buzz with other high-profile projects, apart from “Barbie.” Her film credits include “The Lovebirds,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” and the critically lauded “American Fiction.” Earlier this year, Rae stepped into the role of EP when she and her team launched “A Black Lady Sketch Show,” the first of its kind series. This groundbreaking series became the launching pad for many future stars, including Amber Ruffin, Ashley Nicole Black, and Quinta Brunson. Even though the series was cut short after four acclaimed, award-winning seasons, its influence on the comedy landscape continues to be felt today.
In a recent interview, Rae reflected on her time spent with crossword fame. She posted a funny clip of her BFF and fellow actress Natasha Rothwell to Instagram. They’re both embedded in crosswords on the daily, and Rothwell frequently texts Rae screenshots of her crossword puzzle cameos.
“I’m just like, ‘Oh, it’s me, I’m the answer,’ ” – Issa Rae
Black Mirror Rae and Rothwell’s closeness deepens as they appear opposite each other in separate episodes of “Black Mirror” season 7. Pick up this exciting season, streaming exclusively now on Netflix! Their past on-screen chemistry, shown in “American Fiction,” gives their well-established professional relationship an added push. Whether portraying the good or the evil, Rae’s turn in Black Mirror proves that she is a rising talent, ever-evolving in her craft.
In sharing her experiences, Rae emphasized the importance of her work and how it creates a ripple effect of opportunity. She stated,
“It’s the catalyst for so many things, so I’m not surprised.” – Issa Rae
Rae’s path has long been marked by a mantra of uplifting voices rarely seen on the entertainment world’s stages. In her words,
“was born out of a desire to showcase the best of us and also put us in scenes or sketches that we didn’t get the opportunity to necessarily play in.” – Issa Rae
Rae’s optimism extends beyond her personal achievements. She actively encourages casting that reflects diversity and talent from her past projects.
“Listen, tell Quinta that right now to cast everybody from Black Lady Sketch Show.” – Issa Rae
As she continues to promote her work in “Black Mirror” and celebrates her crossword puzzle presence, Issa Rae remains a celebrated figure in Hollywood. As she moves into each new role, she further establishes her legacy while mentoring and inspiring the next generation of leaders within the industry.