Kerry Washington Invests In Spill: Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Two years ago, Alphonzo Terrell, former global head of editorial at Twitter, launched his social media platform, Spill, and it has quickly made its mark.

Last year, Spill celebrated raising a $2 million seed extension and reaching 200,000 users. Now, Emmy-winning actress Kerry Washington has invested in the app, bringing not just her capital, but her presence to the platform, engaging directly with the community.

MORE: Twitter is tackling online abuse with ‘safety mode’ feature

RELATED: Why is Elon Musk so fascinated by the letter X?

Washington has been active on Spill, hosting Tea Parties—the platform’s live video chats—and discussing voter registration in one-on-one conversations with users. “She’s incredibly accessible and knowledgeable…engaging with people directly,” Terrell told TechCrunch. This reflects the kind of inclusive, human-centered environment Spill aims to create.

Known for her roles on shows like Scandal and Little Fires Everywhere, Washington has made various early-stage investments, including direct-to-consumer startup Byte, fundraising platform Omaze, and SMS marketing tool Community. On her investment in Spill, she said, “In a digital world where marginalised groups, especially Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA folks, rarely feel prioritised, Spill stands out.”

MORE: Everything You Need To Know About Google’s European Black Founders Fund

RELATED: Pinterest Introduces ‘Shuffles’ To Help Create Your Best Moodboards Ever 

One of the platform’s surprise hits this year has been the launch of a multiplayer Spades game, which has driven strong user engagement. A popular game at Black family gatherings, Spades has become a key retention tool for Spill, with players spending an average of 30 minutes per game.

MORE: The Deskie: Joanna Dai, DAI founder

RELATED: Reflaunt’s technology is about to change the second-hand fashion game

Spill’s advertising business has also flourished, thanks in part to Terrell’s background in digital marketing with brands like HBO and Showtime. The platform has attracted partnerships with companies like Paramount+, and multicultural ad spending is expected to reach $45 billion in the U.S. this year. Spill’s ad revenue has grown by 400%, and the platform is set to exceed $1 million in annual revenue next year.

MORE: Say Goodbye To the Lightning Port Forever

RELATED: Will Apple’s iOS 18 Make It Easier to Cheat in Relationships?

While Spill celebrates its growth, the platform also serves as a vital space for users to discuss important social issues. Recently, users mourned the execution of Marcellus Williams, a Black man who was executed despite no DNA evidence linking him to the crime. For Terrell, this moment underscored Spill’s mission to create a safe space for marginalised communities to express themselves freely. “Everybody needs that wherever you can find it,” he said.

As Spill enters its third year, Terrell remains confident in its future. “As long as we continue to execute and build the innovations we’ve planned, we’re going to be in fantastic shape,” he said.