Keke Palmer and SZA are set to star in a new buddy comedy movie produced by Issa Rae. The project, currently untitled, will be directed by Lawrence Lamont, known for his work on Rap Sh!t, with the screenplay penned by Syreeta Singleton, the showrunner of Rap Sh!t. According to a Deadline report published on Friday, April 26, Palmer, 30, will not only star in the film but also serve as an executive producer through her company, Big Boss. This marks SZA's first feature-film acting debut.
Palmer confirmed the news on Instagram, expressing her excitement for the project. Fans and celebrities alike showed their support and enthusiasm for the upcoming film, praising the duo's chemistry and expressing their desire to be a part of it.
The collaboration between Palmer and SZA follows their joint appearance on Saturday Night Live in December 2022. The casting announcement comes after Palmer hinted at potentially taking a step back from the spotlight in an interview with Teen Vogue earlier this year.
Palmer rose to fame with her role in 2004's Barbershop 2: Back in Business and gained further recognition for her performance in Akeelah and the Bee in 2006. She has since appeared in various projects, including True Jackson VP, Masters of Sex, Scream Queens, and Hustlers.
Palmer recently made history by winning an Emmy Award for Outstanding Host for a Game Show, becoming the first Black woman to be nominated and win in the category. She began hosting the Password reboot in 2022.
On the other hand, SZA, a 24-time Grammy Award nominee and four-time Grammy winner, has achieved critical acclaim in the music industry. She won multiple Grammy Awards at the 2024 ceremony, including Best R&B Song, Best Progressive R&B Album, and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. SZA also secured a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for her collaboration with Doja Cat on the hit song, 'Kiss Me More,' in 2022.