Ever since Crazy Rich Asians became the breakout romantic comedy of last year, it feels that the tide is turning on what the leads of romantic comedies look like. We're moving away from our Jennifer Anistons and Kate Hudsons and now we've got Taraji P. Henson, Constance Wu, Dewanda Wise, Gina Rodriguez, and Issa Rae. We're in the age of the Woman of Color Romantic Lead, and I, for one, am Here For It. As someone who's constantly hollering about the importance of representation, imagine how elated I was when news broke that Issa Rae and The Big Sick star Kumail Nanjiani are set to star opposite each other in The Lovebirds, a romantic comedy for Paramount.
Not only are they starring but they're also both set to executive produce, because #getthatmoney. The film will reunite Nanjiani with his The Big Sick director, Michael Showalter.
Per Variety, the synopsis of the film sounds legit: "The story focuses on a couple on the verge of a break-up who become involved in a murder mystery." That plot synopsis is giving me Game Night meets And Then There Were None vibes, and I'm not mad about it.
RELATED STORY
But really, we should all be thrilled about this: Inclusivity, even in romantic comedies, is important. Representation is important. And with Kumail and Issa's comedic timing and likely great chemistry, you can bet you'll find me back row (it's the movies, no one sits front row) with my popcorn, ready to fall in love alongside them.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Amanda Mitchell is a writer and podcaster with bylines at Marie Claire, OprahMag, Allure, Byrdie, Stylecaster, Bon Appetit, and more. Her work exists at the apex of beauty, pop culture, and absurdity. A human Funfetti cake, she watches too much television, and her favorite season is awards season. You can read more of her work at amandaelizabethmitchell.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @lochnessmanda.
-
Paris Hilton Is Finally Ready to Share Her Daughter With the World
Hilton shared why she chose the name London, who her daughter resembles, and the special significance behind her birthdate.
By Fleurine Tideman Published
-
Kim Kardashian Confirms to Jimmy Kimmel Whether the Weirdest Rumors About Her Are True or Not
Emphasis on the WEIRDEST rumors.
By Fleurine Tideman Published
-
Cute Summer Outfits From the Runways With Real-Life Appeal
From beach bumming to al fresco dining.
By Emma Childs Published
-
How Timothée Chalamet's "Emotional Intelligence" Will Transform the Character of Willy Wonka
Literally perfect casting.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Adam Sandler Brought His Wife Jackie and Lookalike Daughter Sunny to 'The Out-Laws' Premiere
So cute!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Nicholas Hoult Told Toni Collette He Still Thinks of Her as His Mom When He Watches One of Her Movies
I love this so much.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Alicia Silverstone Would Totally Do a Sequel to The '90s Rom-Com She Starred In Opposite Brendan Fraser
Did you guys know about this movie??
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Jennifer Grey Spotted Someone Watching 'Dirty Dancing' on a Plane on Valentine's Day
Fact: This is the best thing that's ever happened.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Jennifer Coolidge Would Definitely Be "On Board" to Film 'Legally Blonde 3'
YES!!!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Salma Hayek Says Channing Tatum Almost "Killed" Her During a Lap Dance for 'Magic Mike's Last Dance'
LOL, Salma.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Julia Roberts and Jennifer Aniston Are Body-Swapping in an Upcoming Comedy, And It Might Be the Best News I've Ever Received
Clearly, I've lived an uneventful life.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published