HBO has gone into production on two new docuseries from Issa Rae and the Duplass brothers, respectively.
From Rae, “Seen & Heard” is a two-part documentary that explores “the history of Black television seen through the eyes of trailblazers who wrote, produced, created and starred in groundbreaking series of the past and present.”
From Mark and Jay Duplass, “The Lady and the Dale” is a docueseries that explores an “audacious 1970s auto scam centered around a mysterious entrepreneur.”
“Seen & Heard” is described as offering “cultural commentary about representation in black storytelling and feature interviews with actors, showrunners, writers, celebrities and other notable influencers as well as verité-driven segments and inventive use of archival material. The featured participants will reflect on their own experiences watching African Americans represented on television yesterday and today, while sharing insights into their current creative endeavors, personal experiences, and inspiration, providing a window into the larger evolution of Black storytellers across television history.”
“Black people have such a rich, but often unacknowledged history in Hollywood,” Rae said. “We have defined American culture and influenced generations time and time again across the globe. I’m honored to pair with Ark Media to center and celebrate the achievements of those who paved a way for so many of us to tell our stories on television.”
“Seen & Heard” is produced and directed by Phil Bertelsen (“Who Killed Malcolm X?”), and executive produced by Rae (HBO’s “Insecure”) and Montrel McKay of Issa Rae Productions, the team at 3 Arts Entertainment, including Jonathan Berry and David Becky, and the team at Ark Media (“Who Killed Malcolm X?”), including Rachel Dretzin and Esther Dere.
“The Lady and the Dale,” expected to air in 2021, is described as tracing “the story of Elizabeth Carmichael, who rose to prominence when she released a fuel-efficient three-wheeled vehicle during the 1970s gas crisis. As she wins over major carmakers and investors, a web of mystery unfolds regarding the car’s technology and Carmichael’s surprising past. A portrait of an extraordinary entrepreneur’s rise and eventual fall, the series explores a one-of-a-kind story of fraud, family and identity.”
“We are excited to be collaborating yet again with HBO in the docu-series space, and for the chance to bring the complex story of Liz Carmichael and her three-wheeled car to life,” said Mark and Jay Duplass.
The Duplass brothers will executive produce, along with Mel Eslyn, through their production company Duplass Brothers Productions (“Wild Wild Country”). Andre Gaines, Allen Bain, Nick Cammilleri, Alana Carithers and Zackary Drucker will also serve as executive producers. Other collaborations between HBO and the Duplass brothers include “Room 104,” “Animals.”, “On Tour with Asperger’s Are Us” and “Togetherness.”
The Evolution of Meghan Markle, From 'Suits' Star to Real-Life Princess (Photos)
Meghan Markle, who turned 39 on Aug. 4, was an actress before marrying Prince Harry and becoming the Duchess of Sussex. Earlier this year, the couple stepped back from their royal duties and are now seeking to become "financially independent." Does that mean we could we see Markle back on the small screen? Check out her previous roles.
"A Lot Like Love" (2005)
Markle literally played a "hot girl" in this romantic comedy starring Ashton Kutcher. Markle was seated next to Kutcher's character on a plane. And that was pretty much it.
"CSI: NY" (2006)
Before Meghan landed a series regular role, she had a small bit in this crime procedural, playing a maid who cleaned up for businessmen while dressed in lingerie. Spoiler alert: She didn't commit the murder.
CBS
"Remember Me" (2010)
One of Markle's first roles was a small part in this romantic drama starring Robert Pattinson and Emilie de Ravin.
Markle met her first husband, Trevor Engelson, when he was a producer on "Remember Me." The two divorced in 2013 after two years of marriage.
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"Suits" (2011 - 2018): Meghan starred on this USA legal drama from its premiere as Rachel Zane, a paralegal who eventually goes to law school herself.
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"Horrible Bosses" (2011)
Markle had a teeny, tiny bit in this raunchy comedy, but managed to steal a scene with Jason Sudeikis, who told her she was far too cute to be a FedEx girl. "You’ve got to be an actress or a model or something," he said. Try royalty, Sudeikis.
New Line
"Castle" (2012)
Markle actually played a princess once. Well, kinda. The actress starred in an episode of this ABC drama as Sleeping Beauty, or a woman who is dressed up like her before she is almost murdered. Markle turned out to be the one who hatched the entire scheme and was killing off her friends.
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"Dater’s Handbook" (2016)
Yes, Markle has even done a Hallmark channel movie. She played Cass, a successful businesswoman who had some trouble finding love. But don't worry, she did after using a dating manual, and then throwing it out entirely. Soon after wrapping this made-for-TV movie, Markle truly found love with Harry.
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Markle told Vanity Fair that she met Prince Harry in July 2016 -- and the two first made an official joint public appearance at the Invictus Games in September 2017 in Toronto, a multi-sport event launched by Harry for wounded, injured and sick military servicepeople to compete.
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In November 2017, Harry and Meghan announced their engagement.
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On May 19, 2018, Markle and Prince Harry wed in a star-studded ceremony at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle. She holds the title Duchess of Sussex as well as Princess Henry of Wales (Henry is Harry's real name).
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In May 2019, Markle took on a new role: mom. The Duchess welcomed son Archie on May 9.
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In January 2020, the Duke and Duchess announced they would be stepping back from their royal duties and splitting time in North America. The also plan on launching a new charitable endeavor.
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Markle was reported to have signed a voiceover deal with Disney in January, which was later confirmed when Disney+ announced that the Duchess would narrate a nature film called "Elephant" for the nascent streaming service. The documentary debuted on April 3, 2020.
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Markle has played everything from a ”naughty“ maid on CSI to a whip-smart paralegal
Meghan Markle, who turned 39 on Aug. 4, was an actress before marrying Prince Harry and becoming the Duchess of Sussex. Earlier this year, the couple stepped back from their royal duties and are now seeking to become "financially independent." Does that mean we could we see Markle back on the small screen? Check out her previous roles.