Releasing on Netflix after its 2016 debut on HBO, Insecure is an acclaimed comedy-drama driven by well-written characters and strong performances from cast . Set in Los Angeles, Insecure follows the life of a young African American woman named Issa Rae. From her experiences of working at a non-profit organization to her pursuit of finding meaningful relationships, the show walks through it all in its five-season runtime. While Insecure's primary appeal comes from its relatable depiction of a 29-year-old woman's struggles who navigates the last of her 20s, its storyline is held together by the powerful performances of its cast .
Considering how Insecure's cast plays a crucial role in making it a compelling comedy-drama, it is not surprising that Issa Dee has won several accolades for playing Issa Rae in the series. Not only has she received two Golden Globe Award nominations for her performance in Insecure but three Primetime Emmy nominations as well. Like her, even the other cast of Insecure do an incredible at portraying their respective characters, making the series worthwhile for viewers.
Issa Rae as Issa Dee
As Insecure's main character Issa Rae approaches the final year of her 20s, she feels uncertain about the direction in which her professional and personal life is heading in. Therefore, as the series progresses, Issa attempts to reconsider the role of her unsatisfying relationship with her boyfriend, Lawrence Walker, and even recalibrate the trajectory of her career. Not everything falls into place, and she often finds herself stumbling through her late 20s. However, even the stumbling blocks that come with her complex relationships leave her with valuable lessons.
Issa Dee plays Issa Rae in Insecure's five seasons. Although her Insecure role played a vital role in bringing her to the limelight, audiences may have followed her work in the YouTube web series Awkward Black Girl. The actress has also played a myriad of roles in full-feature films like The Photograph and The Lovebirds, and she will also be a part of the Barbie movie's cast.
Yvonne Orji as Molly Carter
Played by Yvonne Orji, Molly Carter is Issa's best friend, working as a professional lawyer in Insecure. Like Issa, her romantic life goes through several twists and turns and bouts of uncertainty. However, when it comes to her career, Molly is confident and seems to be a lot more certain about her professional future than Issa. Her friendship with Issa feels genuine and is built on a foundation of honesty and trust.
Apart from playing Molly in Insecure, Yvonne Orji is best known for playing Maya in Night School and Mama Ugo in Tempting Fate. She also voiced Tess in My Dad the Bounty Hunter and Gigi in Velma. The actress is also a part of an drama series called Stronger.
Jay Ellis as Martin Lawrence Walker
In Insecure, Jay Ellis plays Martin Lawrence Walker, commonly called Lawrence, who is Issa's long-term boyfriend. Lawrence's initial struggles in Insecure revolve around his inability to get a job after his first start-up fails. His relationship with Issa also takes a complicated turn when she cheats on him. Jay Ellis has many impressive acting credits under his belt, including his role as Lt. Reuben 'Payback' Fitch in Top Gun: Maverick, Jason Walker in Escape Room, and Dr. Cyril Franklin in Masters of Sex.
Insecure ing Cast & Characters
Natasha Rothwell as Kelli Prenny: Portrayed by Natasha Rothwell of the Sonic the Hedeghog and The White Lotus fame, Kelli Prenny is the outspoken friend in Issa' circle who avoids mincing her words and often says exactly what Issa needs to hear. Her opinions and words of wisdom can often be harsh but they preciesly encapsulate what Issa need hear sometimes in Insecure.
Amanda Seales as Tiffany DuBois: Tiffany is Issa's friend from college, and unlike Issa, she seems more well-setled and certain about her life. Amanda Seales, who plays Tiffany in Insecure, is best known for her standup comedy special I Be Knowin' and has also appeared in other TV shows such as My Brother and Me and movies like Freedomland.
Y'lan Noel as Daniel King: Y'lan Noel, known for his roles in The First Purge and The Photograph, plays Daniel in Insecure. Daniel is Issa's "friend with benefits" from school and college and the two remain in touch throughout Insecure's runtime.
Lisa Joyce as Frieda: Frieda appears as the Director of Student Outreach at the NGO where Issa works. Lisa Joyce, who convincingly portrays Frieda her in Insecure, is recognizable for her appearances in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Broadwalk Empire.