HBO’s Seen & Heard Traces the Legacy of Black Television
A new HBO two-part documentary revisits the groundbreaking contributions of Black creators in TV history, blending archival footage and first-hand accounts from cultural icons. The project is executive produced by Issa Rae and premieres September 9, 2025.
HBO Documentary Films is set to release Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television, a two-part special that examines the evolution of Black representation on screen. Directed by Giselle Bailey and Phil Bertelsen, the miniseries is executive produced by Issa Rae alongside a team that includes Montrel McKay, Rachel Dretzin, and John Maggio.
The documentary highlights how Black television has shaped American culture, from early programs like Amos ‘n’ Andy to modern hits such as Insecure. Featuring interviews with Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, Lena Waithe, and more, the series captures both the struggles and triumphs of creators navigating an industry marked by systemic barriers.
Premiering September 9 on HBO and HBO Max, Seen & Heard positions itself as both a history lesson and a cultural celebration. Its official synopsis describes it as an exploration of how Black artists redefined mainstream television while battling for representation and creative ownership. For many, it signals a long overdue acknowledgment of their impact.
The documentary made its debut at the 2025 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival on March 8, drawing acclaim for its breadth of archival material and candid storytelling. It later screened at the American Black Film Festival in June, further building anticipation ahead of its HBO release.
Issa Rae, who also appears in the film, called the project “a tribute to the past and a roadmap for the future.” Her company Hoorae Media collaborated with Ark Media and 3 Arts Entertainment, ensuring a production that combines Hollywood insight with personal testimonies from generations of talent.
What sets the series apart is its range of voices, from Norman Lear to Tracee Ellis Ross, Swizz Beatz, Debbie Allen, Kenya Barris, and Byron Allen. Together, their accounts reflect the layered history of Black television, challenging stereotypes while showcasing groundbreaking artistry that shaped the medium.
The official trailer, titled Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television, underscores the project’s dual tone: celebratory yet uncompromising. It calls on viewers not just to reflect on the past but to recognize the work still needed to ensure equitable representation in entertainment.
