Tracee Ellis Ross’ brand is expanding. It was recently announced that the actress signed a multi-year overall deal at ABC Signature. The company is responsible for producing the critically acclaimed sitcom “Black-ish,” which stars the actress.
Ross’ production company, Joy Mill Entertainment, will be based at the studio and produce content across all platforms, including broadcast, cable, and streaming.
The “Mixed-ish” creator confirmed the news on her Instagram account on Tuesday, Sept. 15, with several screengrabs of articles reporting the information. “I love sharing stories and using storytelling as a way to connect and celebrate humanity,” the 47-year-old wrote in a lengthy caption.
She continued, “As an actor, I’ve had the joy of inhabiting nuanced and dynamic roles. As an executive producer, I am able to build stories, gather creatives and shape worlds as a way to illuminate different realities. This deal continues my journey as a storyteller and content creator. I am thrilled to finally be sharing the news and expanding this part of my artistry at my home studio, ABC Signature. Jonnie Davis, Tracy Underwood, and their team have been incredible collaborators, and I am eager to continue our shared journey and thrilled to bring in Adriana Ambriz as Joy Mill’s head of development.”
Ross concluded her post with a mission statement from her company writing, “Joy Mill Entertainment, my production company, is committed to amplifying multilayered stories that reframe assumptions about how we see ourselves and each other.” She added, “Our stories will reflect humanity in their narratives, encouraging boundless freedom of expression, producing content that intentionally inspires possibility and joy in order to create connection and understanding. Stay tuned!!”
Peers and fans alike flooded the comments section with felicitations, including ballet dancer Stephen Galloway, who jokingly wrote, “Cooking with GREASE! As my Grandma use to say!!! Congratulations 🙏🏾❤️✨✊🏾.” He was joined by 2020 Designer of The Year recipient and Pyer Moss creator Kerby Jean-Raymond, who commented, “The brand is strong. Congratulations money bags.”
Ross’s deal comes on the heels of her 2020 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy for her role as Rainbow Johnson in the ABC series “Black-ish.” This is the actress’s fourth career nomination, and the award will be announced Sunday, Sept. 20.
