On 8 March 2026, actress and producer Issa Rae participated in a unique way at the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon by collaborating with Postmates and her own coffee venture, Hilltop. While Rae has ruled out running the marathon herself, she dedicated her time to encourage participants at Mile 23 of the event, providing them with an essential energy boost as they pushed towards the finish line.
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Speaking to PEOPLE, Rae expressed her admiration for those who braved the marathon course, stating, “I definitely wasn’t gonna run the L.A. Marathon. Shout out to everybody who did.” She candidly explained that the overwhelming atmosphere of the event, combined with the heat, made it unappealing for her to participate personally. “It would feel like going through an L.A. mall or something where it’s too many people you know,” she remarked, adding humorously, “And it is terribly embarrassing to be ugly and run.”
Rae revealed that her preference lies with less crowded locations for long-distance running. She shared that the last thing she wants during a challenging race is for onlookers to recognise her. “I would rather keep it low-key. I’m not trying to be Harry Styles out here,” she joked, referencing the pop star and marathon veteran.
Despite opting out of the actual race, Rae’s presence at the event was entirely in line with her personal interests and commitment to fitness. By distributing Hilltop cold brew to weary runners, she aimed to provide a helpful pick-me-up during a grueling part of the marathon. “We were at the 23rd mile just giving them that extra fuel, that burst of caffeine they needed for the finish line,” she shared. Alongside, participants could also indulge in pickle juice to combat cramps — a practical addition for those nearing the end of their long run.
Having faced the challenge of marathon running firsthand herself, Rae understands the importance of energy reserves in those final stages. In October 2025, she ran the Portland Marathon while wearing a weighted vest, a testament to her dedication. Reflecting on the experience, she noted how vital it was to have that extra energy, especially when the body begins to struggle.
Running has been transformative for Rae, who previously grappled with an aversion to exercise. “I was always trying to get out of some exercise because this wasn’t fun and it hurts,” she admitted. However, her perspective changed once she discovered the joy of running, which shifted her approach from viewing it as a chore to embracing it as an enjoyable activity.
Initially, Rae took up running to explore new cities, as it provided an opportunity to see different landscapes. Now, she finds herself researching trails during her travels, a shift that she finds amusing. “People clown millennials for running marathons and stuff, but I think it comes from a place of control,” she observed. Rae pointed out that in today’s chaotic world, having a set goal in running can offer a sense of order. “You train for something, there’s a set destination, you do it, and it’s done. And you can make sure that it happens,” she explained.
The actress candidly acknowledged that running not only transforms her physically but has also contributed positively to her mental well-being. While she remains uncertain about participating in another marathon, Rae is enthusiastic about her running journey. “I just be running for fun,” she declared. With aspirations to improve her speed following her recent half marathon in February, she clarified that her running is now centred around personal enjoyment and self-improvement rather than competition.
As Rae continues to explore her fitness journey, she remains a beacon of encouragement for others. By supporting local runners in her beloved Los Angeles, she embodies the spirit of community and the vital role of physical fitness, enriching her own life in the process.