Issa Rae’s micro-drama debut surpasses 100 million views on TikTok (update*)

Issa Rae’s micro-drama series “Screen Time” has surpassed 100 million views, according to executives involved in the project, marking one of the clearest signs yet that short-form scripted content is gaining traction on TikTok.

The series follows two couples on a double-date movie night disrupted by a mysterious figure who hijacks their TV, forcing them to confess their secrets or risk exposure.

Rae launched the project through her media company Hoorae as part of a broader partnership with TikTok to develop and distribute short-form scripted content. The series is also available on PineDrama, a standalone app focused on the format, with a second instalment scheduled for May.

Matt Berger, head of sales at Hoorae, said on LinkedIn that the project had now surpassed 100 million views, adding that the company was already developing its next slate of productions. “Microdramas are here, and our partnership with TikTok is proving what’s possible. We’re already building the next slate.”

The performance comes as platforms and media companies step up investment in micro-dramas, a format that has scaled rapidly in China and is now being tested more aggressively in Western markets.

Earlier this year, Fox Entertainment partnered with YouTuber Dhar Mann to produce a slate of short-form dramas, signalling growing interest from traditional media groups.

*This article was updated on 8 May to reflect comments from Hoorae executives that “Screen Time” had surpassed 100 million views across platforms.