Where Did All of the Black Shows Go?

If you Google, “Black television shows currently on network television?” there are four shows that come up: “Abbott Elementary,” “The Neighborhood,” “Beyond the Gates” and “All American.” Four shows. Four shows across six networks. Four shows, across six networks, with multiple time slots available. The lack of Black-led or Black-centered TV shows isn’t just a problem for Black audiences, but it’s a loss for all television fans.

Historically, Black-led shows on network television come in waves. There were times when there was a variety of shows to choose from *insert the 90s*: “Martin,” “Living Single,” “Family Matters,” “Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” “Sister, Sister”…. The list goes on. Black audiences across all generations could finally see our experiences reflected back to them. They felt real, as if writers were peeking into specific moments of our lives. Audiences outside of the Black community got a glimpse of Black culture without the nuances or sometimes blatant racial stereotypes that were frequently attached to Black portrayals on screen. For me, these were the glory days of Black television. Black creators had more control over the narratives that were being told, and Black audiences felt a greater sense of connection to television, giving them a bit more comfort in their place in the world. Diverse storytelling challenges damaging stereotypes. In contrast, white-washed television reinforces a narrow media landscape and the status quo.

I know – we’re living in this anti-DEI/woke era. Elevating marginalized experiences is no longer the “cool” thing to do, but the lack of exposure to Black stories limits empathy, understanding, or cross-cultural connection. But maybe that’s the intended goal. The media has also been a tool for socialization. We learn so much, both passively and actively, from what we see on television shows. Whether it’s Mr. Rogers putting his feet in a pool with a Black officer in the ‘60s, or Olivia Pope addressing racial tension and police brutality in the pivotal episode of “Scandal,” “The Lawn Chair,” television helps audiences of all races understand their connection to social issues impacting society. Without this conscious storytelling, we’re furthering the divide between people with perceived differences, villainizing certain groups and their experiences.

Now, I’m not minimizing the impact of Black shows on streaming platforms. Still, those platforms often limit their visibility to broader audiences and sometimes make them feel as though they’re being hidden from mainstream viewers. Black people watch television. Failing to invest in this viewership is a missed business opportunity, further highlighting that these networks don’t always prioritize profits – they want to push their own agenda (see Jimmy Kimmel).

True progress in media prioritizing representation – the representation of everyone and their experiences. Until the political climate of our nation shifts, marginalized storytellers will have to continue to be innovative in how they create and share their stories. We’ve always made a way and now is no different from any other time.