Amanda Ingrid Seales (born July 1, 1981), formerly known by the stage names Amanda Diva and Mendacious D[1], is a Grenadian-American actress. From 2017 to 2021, she starred in the HBO comedy series Insecure. In 2019, HBO released her first stand-up comedy special I Be Knowin.[2] Then, in 2020, Seales launched Smart Funny & Black, a comedy gameshow that showcases Black culture, history, and experience.[3] Seales was also one of the co-hosts of the syndicated daytime talk show, The Real.[4]
Throughout 2019, Seales served as a frequent guest host for the syndicated daytime talk show The Real.[17] On January 6, 2020, Seales was promoted from guest co-host to permanent co-host.[18] She departed the series after six months of co-hosting, citing her dissatisfaction with the inability to openly speak on recent social issues as a reason.[19][20] In September 2020, Seales accused The Real of stealing ideas from her show Smart Funny & Black, saying The Real's segment "Black Lives Matter University" featured a logo that closely resembled Smart Funny & Black's emblem.[21]
Seales hosts a weekly podcast titled Small Doses.[18][28] Seales's book, 'Small Doses: Potent Truths for Everyday Use' was released in 2019. The book is an extension of her podcast of the same name. It is a volume of essays, axioms, original illustrations, and photos from her trademark "self-help from the hip” style of commentary.[29]
She created and hosts the touring variety game show Smart Funny & Black, where her love of games and music was used to serve as a safe space for the Black voice, and celebrates the many contributions Black Americans have made to history and pop culture, and more.[30] On April 18, 2022, Seales began co-hosting a new weekly radio show, Amanda Seales’ Smart Funny & Black Radio on SiriusXM, alongside Taj Rani and JeremiahLikeTheBible, featuring topics such as games, celebrity interviews and African-American culture.[31]
Controversies
In 2019, Seales repeated false accusations from others that former NFL player and neurosurgeon resident Myron Rolle had sexually harassed several women, which Rolle denied as false. National media outlets reported that her statements had the potential to damage Rolle's career and reputation. Myron Rolle has stated "I did not return their (Seales') advances or wish to engage in a relationship as they may have wanted." Seales never issued a public apology for her actions.[32][33][34]
In the weeks preceding Rodney Reed's November 20, 2019 execution date, Seales publicly urged Texas Governor Greg Abbott to exonerate Reed or stay his execution. She later rescinded her support after learning more about his history.[35]
In February 2020, Seales drew controversy while on The Real when defending Jussie Smollett after he was arrested for faking a hate crime. While describing the accusations as alleged, she went on to defend the actor saying, "Even if it was a hoax for the sake of bringing attention to this, then I’m like, that’s low-key noble".[36] In 2022, Smollett was found guilty of orchestrating a fake hate crime and sentenced to 150 days in prison.[37]
In 2021, Seales was criticized for portraying Alpha Kappa Alpha, or "AKA," insignia on the series Insecure. Real-life members of the sorority responded negatively to Seales' character wearing the shield and letters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. which violates trademark laws.[38] Seales responded to the criticism in an Instagram video defending her portrayal.[39] It was later reported that the sorority plans to take legal action against Seales.[40]
During the Gaza war, Seales has been outspoken in support of Palestine on her social media. According to Seales, she has lost agents, publicists, and friends due to her pro-Palestine advocacy.[41][42][43][44]
Personal life
Seales described herself as autistic during an interview on Club Shay Shay. She later clarified that she is self-diagnosed and has not been diagnosed by a licensed medical professional.[45]
Discography
EPs
List of extended plays, with selected details and year released
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