Deji LaRay

Writer/Director

BIO

Deji LaRay is a writer, director and actor from Atlanta, GA. He is the creator, executive producer and star of JOHNSON streaming on Hulu, which broke viewership records in its television debut. Deji’s new critically-acclaimed show G.R.I.T.S. [Girls Raised in the South] is now streaming on ALLBLK, Prime Video and AMC+. And his latest series 'Wild Rose' starring Omarion as a hitman is now streaming on ALLBLK and Prime Video.

I am drawn to write authentic, character-driven stories built on grounded and vulnerable performances. At the heart of everything I do is a belief in the humanity of flawed characters, and people searching for redemption in their relationships or within themselves. That's what I've found truly resonates. That's what inspires me.

No matter how big or exaggerated the world, the characters always have to feel real. Relatable. Human. And every world I build is an experience. It’s an invitation for the audience to discover it alongside the characters as the story unfolds.

G.R.I.T.S. is a new 8-episode drama series created by Deji LaRay streaming now on AMC's ALLBLK.

New Drama Series Wild Rose streaming on AMC's ALLBLK. Created by Deji LaRay.

JOHNSON

Johnson is a TV series streaming on Hulu created by Deji LaRay, following four lifelong best friends in Atlanta, Omar, Greg, Keith, and Jarvis who all share the last name "Johnson" but are not related. The show explores their personal growth, love, and friendship, with a focus on the mental health, experiences, and perspectives of Black men

JOHNSON SEASON 3 TRAILER

G.R.I.T.S.

G.R.I.T.S. (Girls Raised in the South), a 2025 ALLBLK series created by Deji LaRay, follows three young women navigating life, love, and hustle in Memphis while seeking an escape through a high-stakes roller-skating competition. The show highlights sisterhood, southern culture, and ambition as they work to overcome personal obstacles and urban hardships.

G.R.I.T.S. Season 1 Trailer

Wild Rose

Wild Rose, streaming on ALLBLK is an 8-episode action-drama created by Deji LaRay and starring Omarion as Roosevelt "Rose," a charming hitman from a family of assassins who use a non-profit as a front. When his wife and daughter disappear, Rose uncovers family secrets, forcing him to reevaluate his loyalty while navigating the Hollywood underworld