‘Awkward Black Girl’ Issa Rae to Play Role as Nina Simone

Move over, Zoe Saldana.

By Jamilah King Jun 05, 2013

Move over, Zoe Saldana. ‘Awkward Black Girl’ creator Issa Rae will play Nina Simone in an upcoming biopic of Lorraine Hansberry. From Atlanta Black Star:

The biopic, which is currently in development, will star Hansberry’s grandniece, Taye, as the late author and playwright. Jaleel White, who is best known for his role as Steve Urkel in Family Matters, will play author James Baldwin.

Numa Perrier, who previously penned the script for series The Couple and appeared in "The Call" episode of ABG, will direct the film.

It’s an exciting time for Issa Rae. In addition to her new film role, she’s also set to make her network television debut as the wirter and co-producer of Shonda Rhimes’s upcoming ABC comedy series "I Hate L.A. Dudes."