Exploring the Legal Aspects of Issa Rae’s Career
Georgia State College of Law has launched an innovative new course that delves into the legal aspects of actress and entrepreneur Issa Rae’s expansive career. The course, titled “The Legal Life of Issa Rae,” started on August 21 and offers law students a unique opportunity to study the business and legal strategies behind Rae’s success.
This course will cover the legal intricacies of Rae’s ventures, including her Hoorae media company and Viarae prosecco brand. Through the class, students will explore how Rae navigated the entertainment industry’s complex legal landscape to become a prominent figure in Hollywood.
A Special Guest Appearance by Issa Rae
A major highlight of this course is an anticipated visit from Issa Rae herself in November. The 39-year-old Emmy-nominated actress will join the class to discuss her career journey and business portfolio. Rae’s participation is expected to provide students with firsthand insights into the legal challenges she faced and how she overcame them.
Mo Ivory, who leads the course, is excited about Rae’s involvement. “Issa Rae has long been at the top of my list of inspiring figures to study,” Ivory said. “Bringing her remarkable career into the classroom is a thrilling opportunity for both my students and me.”
The Course’s Unique Approach
Mo Ivory, who also serves as the director of the Center for Entertainment, Sports, and Intellectual Property, created this entertainment law course in 2019. The course focuses on the legal ramifications of public figures’ careers, examining how they navigate contracts, intellectual property, and other legal matters crucial to their success.
In previous semesters, the course has covered the legal journeys of other celebrities, including Ludacris, Kandi Burruss, and Steve Harvey. Now, students will break down how Issa Rae legally rose to fame, from her beginnings with the YouTube web series “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl” to her success with the hit show “Insecure.”
Analyzing Real-World Agreements
The course not only covers theoretical aspects but also gives students a chance to analyze real-world agreements from Rae’s career. This hands-on approach will allow them to see how Rae’s legal strategies have shaped her journey in the entertainment industry.
“Thanks to the support of her team, we’ll also have the unique chance to analyze Rae’s real-world agreements and discuss how her approach to deals is shaping today’s entertainment landscape,” Ivory added. This practical insight will help students understand the importance of legal acumen in building and sustaining a successful career in entertainment.
Building on Past Success
Georgia State College of Law’s decision to focus on Issa Rae reflects her significant impact on the entertainment industry. By examining her legal journey, students will gain a deeper understanding of how legal knowledge can empower creatives and entrepreneurs.
This course is a continuation of the school’s tradition of blending entertainment law with practical case studies of influential public figures. Students enrolled in the class are eager to learn from Rae’s experiences and apply these lessons to their future legal careers.







