Rap Sht Canceled: Issa Rae’s Max Series Won’t Get Season 3**
After two critically acclaimed seasons, HBO’s Max series Rap Sh*t has been canceled. The show, created by and starring Issa Rae, has been praised for its unique blend of music, comedy, and culture, but unfortunately, it appears that the network has decided not to move forward with a third season.
First announced in 2021, Rap Sh*t debuted on HBO Max in December of that year to high praise from critics and fans alike. The show tells the story of two ambitious young women, Shawna and Murphy, who aspire to become the next big thing in the music industry. With their unique voice and style, the friends navigate the ups and downs of the music industry, all while trying to hold on to their friendships and personal relationships.
Throughout its two seasons, Rap Sh*t has been praised for its authentic portrayal of life as a young woman in the music industry. With its witty humor, heartwarming moments, and impressive musical performances, the show has become a must-watch for fans of the genre. Rae, a veteran of the comedy and drama worlds, has delivered a standout performance as both creator and star of the show.
Despite its impressive reception, Rap Sh*t has struggled to attract the same level of viewers as some of its other streaming competitors. According to Variety, the show’s season two finale drew only about 1.5 million viewers, a number significantly lower than other popular series on the platform.
Though the cancellation of Rap Sh*t is certainly disappointing to fans of the show, it’s not entirely unexpected. With the ever-evolving landscape of the television industry, it’s a reality that many shows do not get the opportunity to continue beyond a few seasons.
In a statement obtained by Variety, a HBO Max spokesperson confirmed the cancelation, saying: "We are grateful to the talented cast and crew who brought this unique and spirited show to life. Unfortunately, we have made the difficult decision not to proceed with a third season."
While Rap Sh*t will no longer be returning, its impact on the culture and the music industry cannot be overstated. In a world where representation is more important than ever, the show’s portrayal of two young black women struggling to make it in a male-dominated industry was crucial. Its cancellation serves as a reminder of the ever-present struggle for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
As fans of the show mourn the loss of Rap Sh*t, Rae herself has taken to social media to express her appreciation for the experience and its impact on her life.
"I’m so grateful for the opportunity to create [Rap Sh*t], and I’m proud of what we accomplished," Rae wrote on Instagram. "I’m so proud to have been a part of this show, and to have had the chance to tell these stories."
Here’s to Rap Sh*t, a show that made a lasting impact on popular culture and will continue to be celebrated by fans everywhere.