Issa Rae’s Unscripted Series “Sweet Life: Los Angeles” Premieres on HBO Max

by Naomi Pandolfi August 23, 2021 0 comment

On August 19th, 2021, HBO Max introduced “Sweet Life: Los Angeles,” an unscripted series from Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Issa Rae (HBO’s “Insecure” and “A Black Lady Sketch Show”).

“Sweet Life” follows a friend group comprised of seven Black twenty-somethings working to attain success in Los Angeles. Viewers have the pleasure of watching as the friends navigate through life’s relatable, yet chaotic, moments. Shining a light on Black culture in South LA, “Sweet Life” takes a close look at how this generation handles important issues like mental health, parenthood, finances, and gentrification.

In honor of the “Sweet Life” premiere, an intimate screening, gathering together some of LA’s finest press, influences, and industry professionals, took place atop the elegant NeueHouse of Hollywood on August 18th. All guests were required to show proof of vaccination and provide negative Covid results prior to the event in order to gain access. Due to the pandemic’s uptick regarding the Delta variant, the event was pared down, hence the decision to offer a more intimate setting.

The venue presented eye-catching boho chic-inspired decor, filled with the fresh combination of wood and fresh shrubbery accents. The first two episodes of the breakthrough series were shown via a huge screen perched high in the air, providing all guests the chance to witness the premiere on, truly, ‘the big screen.’

Upon arrival, guests were treated to a tasteful spread of celebratory champagne and specialty-themed cocktails, “Good Vibes Only” and “The Sweet Life.” An array of scrumptious hors d’oeuvres were served throughout the night, including delish miniatures of classic dishes like chicken and waffles, brioche beef sliders, avocado toast, and passionfruit cheesecakes. Meanwhile, DJ R-Tistic kept the crowd vibing all night long with a setlist of some of the hottest hits.

The “Sweet Life” cast was unable to attend the screening, due to being in a production bubble, but the fabulously talented, Black girl magic boss babe and series creator Issa Rae stepped out in style to partake in the viewing and mingle with guests. Rae pointed out two special guests in the audience — “Sweet Life” producer Ashley Calloway and executive producer Sheri Maroufkhani (BET’s “Baldwin Hills). Other notable attendees included Yvonne Orji (“Insecure”), Kamie Crawford (Miss Teen USA 2010), Karrueche Tran (“The Bay,” “Claws”), Shaun Ross (model), and Freddie Ransome (Buzzfeed).

HBO Max The Sweet Life Los Angeles Premiere Party

This explosive series gives an honest view at what it means to be young, Black, and in pursuit of one’s dreams in such a competitive city. The core cast includes seven young adults, all from different backgrounds and working in different industries — Amanda, PR rep; Briana, wants to create her own skincare line; Cheryl, fashion designer, and artist; Jerrold, former college basketball star; Jordan, owner of his own clothing line; P’Jae, aspiring music producer, and Tylnn, event planner.

“Sweet Life: Los Angeles” is produced by HOORAE, Issa Rae’s media company, as well as Morning Dew Pictures and Main Event Media, an All3Media America Company. Executive producers include Issa Rae, Montrel McKay, Jimmy Fox, Sheri Maroufkhani, Leola Westbrook, and Sun de Graaf. Rajah Ahmed and Pyongson “Sunny” Yim serve as co-executive producers and Sara Rastogi and Ashley Calloway as producers.

The first three episodes of the nine-episode series debuted on August 19th, followed by the next three to be released on August 26th, and the final three to be released on September 2nd. A reunion special will launch on September 9th. Follow the series on IG to keep up with the latest.