Maya Jama and Lady Leshurr have spoken about the significance of ITV2's hip-hop panel show Don't Hate the Playaz.
Now in its third series and hosted by Rizzle Kicks' Jordan Stephens, the format is part-quiz, part-freestyle challenges and games, as faces from across comedy and music join team captains Maya and Leshurr each episode.
"It's probably the only show in the UK which is that diverse and unique," Leshurr told Metro. "It's only going to get stronger as the years go on, and get bigger and better.
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"We haven't really got [another] Black TV show or a show that showcases culture, media, entertainment and a little bit of politics like this.
"I'm just really happy and proud to be a part of something that is going to be history in making. We're creating and setting foundations for TV presenters and other people in the UK to do similar things."
Maya echoed her co-star's comments, explaining: "You barely ever see such a diverse panel on one of the main channels. I think it's super refreshing to be able to reflect hip-hop and our scene on a mainstream platform.
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"To see a show like this on ITV, with such a big platform is incredible. It just proves that these shows can get a look in. I do feel proud [to be a part of it]."
Meanwhile, Maya also said there's been a noticeable "shift" during 2020 in terms of inclusivity and diversity on screen.
"Obviously there's still a massive way to go, and we need more shows than just Don't Hate the Playaz, but I think things are going in the right direction."
Don't Hate the Playaz airs on ITV2 every Tuesday at 10pm.
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Reporter, Digital Spy
Dan is a freelance entertainment journalist. Beginning his writing career in 2014, Dan's work first graced the pages of cult publications Starburst magazine and Little White Lies before moving onto Total Film, Digital Spy, NME and Yahoo Entertainment.
In the film and TV universe, he kneels at the altar of Jim Carrey, Daniel Plainview, Mike Ehrmantraut and Paulie Walnuts.
