Issa Rae receives HBO pilot order for new boxing-themed comedy

HBO has ordered a pilot for a new half-hour comedy series written and executive produced by Issa Rae. Currently referred to as ‘Untitled Male Friendship Show,’ the project explores the high-stakes world of professional boxing in Las Vegas.

The story follows Menzel, a 30-year-old barber and aspiring sports manager, and his best friend JB, an emerging professional boxer. The series aims to examine themes of ambition, insecurity, loneliness, and the complexities of success.

This project reunites Rae with Prentice Penny, who served as showrunner for the Emmy-winning series ‘Insecure.’ Penny is set to direct the pilot and serve as showrunner and executive producer. Other executive producers include Jax Clark through Rae’s Hoorae banner, as well as Jonathan Berry and Dave Becky.