Kerry Washington Backs Spill: A Black-Owned Twitter Alternative Making Waves
From Layoff to Launch: The Rise of Spill
Just one year after his layoff from Twitter, Alphonzo Terrell—former global head of editorial at the platform—had reason to celebrate. His brainchild, Spill, a Black-owned social media app, secured a $2 million seed extension and amassed 200,000 users. Fast forward to today, and Spill has another milestone to toast: Emmy-winning actress Kerry Washington has joined as an investor.
More Than Money: Washington’s Active Role
Washington isn’t just a silent backer. She’s deeply engaged with the Spill community, hosting “Tea Parties”—live video discussions—and even connecting one-on-one with users about voter registration.
“She’s incredibly accessible and knowledgeable, especially around these topics, and isn’t afraid to engage directly with people,” Terrell told TechCrunch. “This embodies the environment we want on Spill—a space for genuine human connection.”
A Track Record of Strategic Investments
Beyond her acting accolades (Scandal, Little Fires Everywhere), Washington is a seasoned angel investor. Her portfolio includes:
- Byte: A direct-to-consumer teeth-alignment startup
- The Wing: Former women’s co-working space (now defunct)
- Omaze: Celebrity-driven fundraising platform
- Community: SMS-based marketing tool
“In a digital world where marginalized groups—especially Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA+ communities—are often overlooked, Spill stands out,” Washington stated. “I’m proud to support this platform as both an investor and user.”
Unexpected Growth Driver: Spill’s Spades Game
One of Spill’s breakout features this year? A live, multiplayer Spades game. Rooted in Black cultural traditions (think family gatherings and barbecues), the game has significantly boosted user retention, with average sessions lasting 30 minutes.
“It’s partner-based, so it’s inherently social,” Terrell explained. “This was a community-suggested addition, and it’s resonated powerfully.”
Monetization and Advertising Success
Despite the challenges of sustaining a new social platform, Spill’s ad revenue is soaring. Leveraging Terrell’s background as a digital marketing director (HBO, Showtime), the app has secured partnerships with major brands like Paramount+.
- Multicultural ad spending has grown 5-10% annually over seven years, projected to hit $45 billion in the U.S. this year.
- Spill’s average ad spend per campaign has surged 400%.
- The platform is on track to surpass $1 million in annualized revenue next year.
“We’re hyper-focused on a niche where no one else competes like us,” Terrell emphasized. “With steady execution and innovation, we’re poised for long-term success.”
A Platform for Community and Advocacy
Spill’s mission as a Black-owned, inclusive space was underscored recently when users rallied around the execution of Marcellus Williams, a Black man who maintained his innocence for over 20 years on death row. The platform provided a safe space for nuanced discussions about racial justice and systemic inequities.
“Yesterday’s events highlighted the need for community support,” Terrell reflected. “No one should carry these burdens alone. Spill is here to foster those connections.”
The Road Ahead
As Spill closes its second year, its blend of cultural relevance, engaged investors like Washington, and innovative features positions it as a rising star in social media—one that prioritizes authenticity, inclusivity, and meaningful dialogue.
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