Many of us met EBONY’s 2023 July Cover Star Issa Rae as Issa Dee on HBO’s Insecure. While she’s certainly evolved well beyond that character—think roles in The Photograph, Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse, or even the hat she wears as the boss of HooRae Media—we’ll forever see her as Issa Dee.
Yet, a role that many folks tend to overlook from the LA native is that of fashion trendsetter. When we see her on red carpets, she exudes the poise of a literal Black Barbie, with the perfect hint of that Cali flare pushing through—it’s what we love most about her. So, it was only right that Rae was tapped to play the actual President Barbie in the new live-action Barbie film.
Sure, as a culture, we’ve had examples of living Black Barbies and princesses in the past. Brandy, Beyoncé, Anika Noni Rose, Zendaya and several cartoons with regal Black characters sprinkled in. But Rae will be the first-ever Black Barbie in a live-action movie, and we can’t think of a better fit for the role.
Let’s be honest, she has been eating up red carpets for years now. Her gowns are always perfectly tailored and her stylists have mastered the art of selecting colors that make her flawless, rich brown skin pop. And, we certainly can’t forget her hair. Whether in its natural state or with some manipulation—the “Rap Sh!t” creator’s crown is always on point.
Below, we’re giving you 39 times Issa Rae gave us Black Barbie vibes on red carpets and beyond.
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