HBO and Rick Rubin Announce New Documentary Series 'JAŸ-Z IN 8'
The official trailer reveals a first look at the eight-part conversation that explores the hip-hop icon’s storied music catalog and writing process.
Summary
HBO will premiere 'JAŸ-Z IN 8' an eight-part documentary series directed by Rick Rubin on September 18
The series features candid conversations between JAŸ-Z and Rubin exploring the lyrics and stories behind iconic tracks
Two new episodes will air weekly on Fridays across HBO and HBO Max through October 9
HBO has officially announced its upcoming original documentary series, JAŸ-Z IN 8. Directed by Rick Rubin, the eight-part project features an in-depth, candid conversation between JAŸ-Z and the veteran producer as they break down the hip-hop icon’s career 30 years after his landmark debut album, Reasonable Doubt.
Executive produced by Shawn Carter, Rick Rubin, and Daniel Kaluuya, the series closely examines JAŸ-Z’s songwriting process, tracing how his lyrics reflect his childhood, personal experiences, and evolving career. Each chapter uses a shared listening session to dissect key tracks across his discography, including “Can’t Knock The Hustle,” “Brooklyn’s Finest,” “99 Problems,” “4:44,” and “The Story Of O.J.”
The documentary marks Rubin’s feature directorial debut, filmed with cinematography by Bradford Young and produced under the Tetragrammaton banner. Across the eight chapters, the series connects the artist’s discography to pivotal moments in his life, offering a career-spanning portrait of his creative process and cultural impact.
JAŸ-Z IN 8 debuts on HBO and streams on HBO Max on Friday, September 18, 2026, launching with two back-to-back episodes starting at 8 p.m. ET before releasing two new episodes weekly through October 9.
