Same Ole, Same Ole
The show does nothing to advance the perception of Blacks or alter how Blacks are viewed by non-Blacks across the world. Every show does not and cannot project the true image of working-class Blacks who are law-abiding, hard-working and committed to family. That’s a more accurate reality of Black life. But the all-too-pervasive visual of African-Americans as drug dealers or former drug peddlers has been overdone, and each time it is done it re-enforces a false narrative about who Black people are as a whole. It is a reason globally that Blacks are viewed less favorably than any other race. The gangster/philanderer/murderer role more recently was done in the Showtime network show, Power — and it was done much better and smarter. “I can’t tell you everything that Dr. (Martin Luther) King and our ancestors wanted for our people,” social commentator Boyce Watkins said, “(but) I can certainly say that it had nothing to do with the crap we’re seeing in modern American media.”
Black people need to get hip about perception. Never let others detail you in a negative light. Roman behavior is a sin.
I tuned into the show for its first airing in my area, for about 20 minutes of its brainwashing then I tuned out immediately. I had had enough.
I AM QUOTING THIS FROM A FRIEND WHO COULD NOT HAVE SAID IT BETTER: "Wake up everybody! It's NOT just entertainment. Stereotypic media images cause those with limited exposure to us to determine that our lives don't matter…thus they can kill us without consequence!" #wakeupeverybody.
Please tell me why we care how "other races" view us because of how we are portrayed on a television show or movie? IT IS ENTERTAINMENT!! If you don't like it don't watch. I am more concerned that ANYONE would judge a whole race of people based off a tv show. Who cares what other people think? Why do we always have to care about how we will be looked at?
I stopped watching after the second show… I missed the first one. The show took me back to the 70's when all we had as heroes were whores, pimps and drug dealers…….SUPER FLY…BLACK CESAR etc…. Our young blinded by greed and wealth achieved the wrong way , so they continue to fill the corporate owned prison and provide slave labor…the rich get richer and the poor get poorer… even if this show is providing jobs for black actors as some have said to me, leave well enough alone..so sad.
I can understand why one would think this show is detrimental to the Black image, but what I don't understand is how we aren't up in arms about the shows that WE produce that show us in just as bad of a little. Tyler Perry has a string of shows that constantly show the world all black folks no how to do is "shuck & jive". We're up in arms about whites portraying us in a negative light but what about our own? There's nothing positive about crap Tyler Perry put on tv. And to compound it, his shows are on a Black Network. (OWN)
As much as I like to watch Scandal, is Olivia Pope really our image? A powerful black woman who can't keep her legs closed to a married man? A White man non the less? C'mon Shonda!
Don't just look at one program and point fingers because when we get the pen to write our own narrative we haven't done a great job.
Respectability politics won't save you. We've had show after show of strong black people, families…and guess what? White supremacists and racists STILL want usdead. Show the range of Black experience, from the bufoonish to the professional, from the funny to the tragic, and let us be able to express all of our humanity. We're not going to convince white society to accept us by dressing in suits and speaking proper English; we might as well express ourselves how we are.
Respectability politics won't save you. We've had show after show of strong black people, families…and guess what? White supremacists and racists STILL want usdead. Show the range of Black experience, from the bufoonish to the professional, from the funny to the tragic, and let us be able to express all of our humanity. We're not going to convince white society to accept us by dressing in suits and speaking proper English; we might as well express ourselves how we are.
Black people need to stop. Its just a damn show with actually good acting. Its not meant to "uplift" the black community. Problem is black folks can't stand to see how we really act in reality. The portrayal of black people in this show is quite accurate especially in the entertainment industry. Taraji p. henson is an intelligent woman and an amazing actress. No offense to anyone but I'm sure most of these illegitimate comments are made from those who listen to Juicy J type genre anyways so what's the difference? One you listen to, and one you watch…choose your poison.
Go watch Family Matters and Good Times then. This "article" is merely a Buzzfeed.com level disgrace to journalism and Atlanta Black Star. If you're going to critique someone's work, at least do it with finesse and quality.
Go watch Family Matters and Good Times then. This "article" is merely a Buzzfeed.com level disgrace to journalism and Atlanta Black Star. If you're going to critique someone's work, at least do it with finesse and quality.
This is true! Admittedly, the show is entertaining but I see the propaganda from a mile away. I hate how they portray back folks as being unacceptable towards homosexuals. That's bs. There be gay folks all up in the black church. I have family members who are gay and we accept them. Most black families accept their gay relatives. It is entertainment but we need to comfort the images continue to perpetuate about us. Unfortunately, too many of us are comfortable and not challenge the status quo; thus the dominant society continue to feel comfortable assassinating us on screen and in real life. We need to counter that by practicing group economics
Seriously?!? C'mon! It's a TV show. It's called entertainment. Sure there's some bad entertainment out there (but that's opinion).
Not every TV show is meant to depict truth; there are shows and channels that do that, watch those (if you take things personally). It's called fiction. Not even reality shows are the truth. Just because someone is the same race as you, does not mean that they represent you. If you're offended, don't watch it! If you want to empower Black people, go out into the real world and make a difference! There are countless White shows that do not it can not represent the white population in a positive light. They don't complain nearly as much, they do what they have to do in the real world because at the end of the day, that's all the representation that matters.
I've said the exact same thing Kevin in regards to Scandal. How is it we finally get a leading female character on prime time TV and yet she IS smart, but is having an affair with a Married man. My issue has always been with Scandal….I love the writing but why can't we write Olivia's character to be smart enough to say No! However the writers are disguising it as Love, but what does love have to do with self respect? That's what missing in Hollywood. No one want to see a strong black woman who is respected instead let's make her slightly crazy and we have a hit!
What we really need to stop showing is the Real Housewives series, they don't help us either!
I'm still watching the show. It's the BOMB, don't hate!
It's called psychological warfare. You begin to believe what you see as true! Media is the devil.
The answer is very simple: Start creating that which you wish to see. There is enough creative minds with more than enough power to do that. Surely we can do more than what is currently being accepted. Time to get proactive..,
Do white people have to answer for terrible tv shows? next
Yeah…tell this to the gay people who are not accepted.
These bad images of blacks in entertainment is part of the propaganda been used to fuel our demise, Adolf Hitler used bad propaganda against the jews before he started killing them, and the same thing will happen to blacks if we dont wake up, why do u think it is so easy to kills blacks and get away with it, we have been portrayed as thugs, killers, gangbangers, aids carriers, and what do u do with someone like that? u annihilate them!!
Patricia the sad part of what you're saying is that when that was done (Cosby Show) blacks complained about that! They said it wasn't realistic. "We don't live in brownstones and are college educated or marry a doctor or lawyer." We always seem to find something to complain about no matter the image portrayed.
This article is ridiculous. It is coming from someone who doesn't understand modern TV entertainment at all. EMPIRE is an excellent show. I watch an extraordinary amount of TV. (None of that reality crap.) Your TV show is not your moral compass, it's your entertainment.
Be the change u want people to see instead of wanting a fictious show to portray us in a better light. Its fake anyway. If they want to believe it, so what. Let them live in their own ignorance. SHOW people the difference between TV and reality. Raise your kids the way u want society to see them. Quit blaming TV and put in the work for change. Even if TV showed us in a better light, it wouldn't do any good if people meet us in person and we still doing the same Ole crap.
Well if that is true, it seems to me the responsible thing would be to provide those people who are potential victims, better exposure so that they can digest this show without indigestion.
ART IMITATES LIFE.
When you read…."The executives at FOX NETWORK" naturally you assume…."THE WHITE MAN" however I am consistently telling black people that…. art imitates life…..and its your kind that's killing you……
TRANSLATED:
1.) Black Men killing each other…. "check"
2.) Angry Black Woman going after a Black male "check".
3.) Educated, Successful Black Male with a White Woman "check".
4.) Display of Effeminized Black Males "check".
5.) Blacks committing crimes and going to prison "check".
6.) Two Bitter Black Women going after each other….one being light skin, the other brown skin…. "check"
7.) The Promotion of Ignorant ass Crack Baby Rap Music "check".
8.) Overweight Black Woman displaying her self hate by wearing a BLONDE WIG "check".
BLACK PEOPLE……..BUT DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE REALLY WATCHING…..
“I wanted to blow the lid off of it.”.
"Daniels was speaking about… "his"….. new show Empire, which features a gay character named Jamal (played by Jussie Smollett) whose father Lucious Lyon (played by Terrence Howard) struggles with accepting his son’s sexuality.
Daniels says that the character of Lucious is partially based on his own father. When he was a boy, Daniels’ father beat him up after walking in on his young son dressed in a pair of his mother’s red pumps.
“What we’re doing is telling a little bit of the story of Lee growing up in that way,” Howard added during the panel discussion, “but it’s really a bigger part of what’s happening throughout the entire world.”.
He went on to say that the show aims to tackle the issue of homophobia in the black community by offering certain viewers “an opportunity to see what they’re doing is painful. It’s crushing someone that could be beautiful.”.
“[Homophobia] is so real and it is happening to so many people, has happened to so many people,” Smollett said.
One of the scenes in the pilot episode is particularly disturbing. It shows Lucious take his 4-year-old son outside and throw him in a trash can after walking in on him wearing his mother’s underwear. The scene is inspired by the event from Daniels’ childhood.
“When Lee had me take that kid down the stairs and put him in the trash can, it was with no apologies associated with it, because that’s what happened to him,” Howard explained. “The fact that he survived that is a beautiful thing.”.
Empire is the only prime-time drama the featured a nearly all-black cast and was just renewed for a second season. The cast and producers say they are hopeful the show will start a trend both in the depiction of gay stories and black stories on television.
THE HOMOSEXUALS WILL NOW SPEAK FOR YOU AND TELL THE WORLD WHAT "YOU"…THE…. "THEY"…. WANT……
1.“What it shows is that people want to see people that look like them on television,” Smollett said.
2. “They also want to see people that do not look like them on television.
3. They want to see a representation of our world on television, and our world is not one color.”.
Black men and women working on Black version of a Shakespearian/Soap Opera drama is not failing Black America. Black men killing other Black men, women and Children everyday in real life, that's failing Black America, legitimately. Nighttime drama's are scandalous for every race, you aren't going to get a drama, Black, white or otherwise that doesn't have drama, sexual scandal, more than one person going to prison or committing a crime and some sort of substance abuse. I dare you to name one.
Black men and women working on Black version of a Shakespearian/Soap Opera drama is not failing Black America. Black men killing other Black men, women and Children everyday in real life, that's failing Black America, legitimately. Nighttime drama's are scandalous for every race, you aren't going to get a drama, Black, white or otherwise that doesn't have drama, sexual scandal, more than one person going to prison or committing a crime and some sort of substance abuse. I dare you to name one.
All television shows are stereotypical. For all races and financial backgrounds. Name one positive late night drama that stars any race.
Jack Tilson I agree!
This is equality if you think about it. I mean, if I am a white writer, and I write a show that has dysfunctional characters, does Black America really want those TV producers to say, *The lead character is secretly a drug addict, so we can't cast a black man. And the nurse is sleeping with someone who isn't her husband, it's a juicy role, we definitely can't do a Black woman……and the son is gay and in the closet, so no Black men…..make sure we only cast white actors for this one.* Then it's this exciting drama with an all white cast, and we are boo hooing that there's no Black people on it. Would you prefer they write in someone to serve shrimp to everyone at the table so Black people get a role? We don't want Black people to have anything other than positive roles, then you know NOTHING about how television drama works. If you aren't dysfunctional, you aren't the star.
Deborah Spears What nighttime drama has a benign woman or man lead character that never gives in to temptation?
People don't even know what they want to see. If you want every show to be the Cosby show, then you are basically saying you don't want Black people to participate in anything but family shows and positive documentaries, which is ridiculous. Even Othello killed his wife…..you cannot have a drama without dysfunction, or it's not a drama, it's a comedy.
Its entertainment..its not real life…come on
What we need to be upset about is not some show on television but how they negatively try to portray our president and First Lady ! I watch shows to be entertained not for role models and messages! There are shows that other ethnic groups in a bad light but we are the ones who get upset over fictional characters! If you don't like a show, change the channel , that's what I do!
This show, and most other TV shows don't have as their goal to uplift and promote a race of people. They are entertainment used to sell gods. If it is not made interesting by using exaggerated characters and sorry lines then no one would watch it and it would be canceled. I ask myself two questions, was it quality in is production cakes, and was I entertained. For me the answer is yes to both. This shoe probably rings tryer fir the industry it pays then we want to admit. At its core it is very much more a Skakespearian drama. We are big enough as a people to withstand strong and weak images of ourselves.
I minister in a multi-ethnic congregation located in one of our predominately African-American urban centers. Our congregation is majority African-American, as is the neighborhood in which I live. Knowing so many young men that have sold out to the negative stereotypes, I was saddened by the portrayal of the African-American community in this show. Honestly I have only seen about the last 20 minutes of the third episode, yet my response was this will not help those who are of lighter skin hues look favorably on those of the darker hue. It would only serve to re-entrench archaic racial perceptions in those who are ignorant enough to buy into believing the presented stereotype — and sadly that is far too many people. I am grateful that I have come to know so many African-American individuals and families that have broken the stereotype mold, those with strong moral compasses, solid marriages and families, careers of significance, and respectable levels of education.
It's entertainment. I'm over 50 and have my own comfortable life, not trippin, I'm watching TV with my feet kicked up… let it go to your head, it doesn't go to mine. 🙂
If you can't see how shows like this propagate and cement the stereotypes of African Americans to people who might not know many African Americans, then that's part of the problem. We must hold ourselves in a better light. Most of the shows that protray African Americans, show them all in the same light, it feeds the stereotypes. It makes it harder for people who don't have African American friends to see them in any other light. When there's more shows like The Cosby Show, or Everybody Hates Chris, or Homeboys in Outer Space** & not a majority of shows that makes African Americans out to be gangsters, drug dealers, whores, deadbeats, jail birds, single unwed mothers, degenerates, non-scholars, and/or hostile animals; then maybe the world would think more of us….
Although these stereotypes aren't true, it doesn't matter if that's all the world sees you as.
If a virgin at school gets labeled a whore, and everybody just jumps on the bandwagon and believes the hype, then it doesn't matter of she's never had sex, because of the label that's been branded. (sux but it's true). African Americans should want to be branded better. This is how their children will be viewed. No African American should be watching any show that portrays their kind in a bad light. Protest is needed until the stereotype changes.
This goes beyond entertainment, blackface was entertainment for people but I suppose the people that are okay with shows like this is okay with blackface too, right? Because then that would explain why any African American would support anything that makes them look bad.
{{**I chose those shows because they actually portrayed African Americans as more than what we usually see, i.e. a strong family unit or astronauts.}}
all of this ^^.
Them negros in Hollywood, they aren't producing anything by themselves, out of that Fascist Hollywood. The puppet master is in control. So stop miss leading our own people with this bull crap. This is the test to know if we're handling our business. When African American must push back on other ethnicities who are coming into our communities because the living conditions are the best.
you posted a lot and said nothing at all.
Jason Rashard Fleming…You lack of having the skill set to grasp what I wrote says more about you than me. What I wrote says it all because what I wrote evidences what I said in saying that……Art imitates life.
AS soon as I see the name Lee Daniels, I know whatever it is, Black People will Not come off looking good. The same man that graced us with " Precious " and The Butler, tut tut. This man has made denigrating Black People an Art form. Even 2 White Men who wrote the script for I spy back in 1965 gave us a better Image than Daniels does in 2014/15. They at least gave us a Lead Character, who was Smart, College Educated and Charismatic. NO Drug Dealers family as a backdrop. Hey And all this when Black people in the USA were just about getting the right to vote. Lee Daniels and all the other so called professional SELL OUT BLACKS, need to " FIX UP", as the Jamaicans say. I'd rather have nothing than this crap.
O'really, now just looky you, such a fine example and in you, it's as plain as daylight that TV brainwashing is in perpetual control of all that you believe. You're so naiev to believe that any government would allow an autonomous entertainment industry. Anyway, one thing for sure their investment in you has more than given double its investment returns back…lol.
U need to get out more and meet different people if u feel this is how black people act in reality. Smh
I say shut the fuck up and enjoy the show….White people have Dallas and any one of 100 soap operas with the same story line…. Some black people need to sit their asses down somewhere.
I think the author of this article should write the vision script. imagine what his television series would be about.
that should be television script.
You can listen to Rap, Live in the Hood, and Recognize Gang Activity but that don't mean you have to Mimic it jus cause a tv show displays it! That's what's wrong with our people now, you think jus cause its on tv and a few people you know or see possibly act like this, so you believe this is 100% Truth when all it is are a bunch of Brainwashed Ignorant folks acting like those Shows they love to watch like this and Basketball Hoes, and Skanks of ATL portray the Black race to be! man Wake the hell up cause I tell ya this Not all Blacks are like these Peons!
black ppl get on my nerves.. Always gota find something to complain about. Hell if empire was of a perfect family making money the "right" way it would be boring and I wouldn't watch it!
I cannot believe what I just read, so I think I'll write 5 reasons why the show is GREAT for black people on Radiofacts.com.
Kevin, and that is where the real problem lies, we have enough Black power in Hollywood, to take Black Hollywood in a different direction. there is no excuse for what is happening, other then they are being blinded by money. Most have no vision for the collective, they live their lives very selfishly, without a conscious And the saddest part is that, since this is a new gateway that has opened, it is spiraling out of control.Television, and big screens, are transmitters, and what's being transmited ain't nothing nice….may the force be with us.
Everything that was said is absolutely true and aired on one of the most racist networks on the air.It's called black negativity and it's out there for the world to see and judge as if this is how most black families are.
Because these images are the same reason why the blatant injustices are happening to our ppl.
From a perspective of someone who works in the music and radio industry. I disagree with this article for these reasons.
http://www.radiofacts.com/5-reasons-empire-winning-ratings-great-black-people/
Here's a perspective from someone who works in the music and radio industry…
http://www.radiofacts.com/5-reasons-empire-winning-ratings-great-black-people/
White people arent losing the way we are. They are not being subjugated and marginalized. They have an economic base and a moral code than insulates them. The moral code is not in regards to how they treat others but how they treat each other. Being criminalized on tv leads to being criminalized on the street. We have to show that we have some respect for ourselves. Lets entertain ourselves with something positive.
Im tired of the its just entertainment narrative. Is that all we care about? No wonder its so easy to subjugate and oppress us. We just need something to play with like a child. Was Birth of a Nation just entertainment?
I disagree. Do you honestly think blatant injustices are happening to our people because of television shows? What was the excuse before tv came into existence? This has been happening to our people before tv existed. I just don't see the correlation.
David J Crockett Jr Accepted by who? Black people are in no condition to not accept anyone. We have zero political power and have no input on what happens to gays. Our boat has a hole in it already.
Its television, entertainment, fabricated, damn everyone is so damn seriously demeaning of other people shit!
All those comments applauding this trash show is exactly why this generation is lost.
Give me a break it's entertainment tell your parents to teach you right from wrong.
Why does this show have to be deep? It's not supposed to be on a Cosby Show level……why can't we have a show like Boardwalk empire w all black cast?
Why does this show have to be deep? It's not supposed to be on a Cosby Show level……why can't we have a show like Boardwalk empire w all black cast?
It's not faults the writers and producers of these shows that a very large group blacks are easily influenced by the rap industry and also the negative images that are displayed before their eyes. This is one of the main reasons why whites start to stereo type us because if they see rappers or gangsters on tv and then walk out their front door they are most likely to see 4 out 10 black males or females trying to be what they are influenced to be on tv or whatever thief source may be. It's easy to do something or follow something that takes minimal effort for example being a drug dealer or rapper. All u need is drugs. And all u need is a "shack" that's called a studio. That's why so many of us choose to go this route. Some see It's an easy way out. So I feel that we shouldn't be mad at the entertainment world for casting our black people for negative roles. I just feel like we have to be much smarter and know that it's jus tv. It's not real. It's a way to make a living. I also feel that it's much more fun to write about violence and corrupt things and to watch such good actors make it all seem so real. So real that some of us even try to go out in the real world and make it our own reality. So Sad but so true. In the entertainment industry it's all about the money baby. They can care less what color you are. They just want you to play your role and make them rich. Besides on empire the white girlfriend of the oldest son is just as corrupt as everybody else.
This article is ALL over the place with whether the show is an authentically exaggerated representation of the real lives of African Americans, or something like that. This show has many layers, and I love every one of them. We need to keep watching these shows because even as they reinforce certain negative (to whom?) images of ghetto life, at least African Americans are telling the stories.
Cant control the industry but you can control your remote, changing the channel is more effective than complaining.
Cant control the industry but you can control your remote, changing the channel is more effective than complaining.
Must we always read into more than what it really is❓❓❓❓ENTERTAINMENT ‼️‼️ white people make movies like this all the time and nothing is said, if everyone in this world would just realizes there are good and bad no matter who you are or what color you are period⚫️⚪️⚫️⚪️
Here's thought…how about we as black people do better and stop illustrating the ignorant, uneducated, classless stereotypes that Hollywood continues to perpetuate. Improve our communities and work to support each other instead of fighting against each other. Perhaps if we show empowerment, unity, and support for one another, the stereotypical perceptions will change in media. Just a thought.
J Rome Tucker well said!
Kelly Pugh-Wiggins Thank you!
Maybe this is how black people "act" who you associate yourself with, but please do not speak for all because I do not "act" like a buffoon in private nor in public so speak for yourself please.
The more the dominant culture find ways to dehumanize black folk, the easier and easier it will become to shoot/choke them in the streets without very little out-cry from those in the dominant culture. I mean, the black man has no value anyways right? Of course I don't believe this but there are many others who do. #mypeople #wakeup #endthisdebauchery.
Its just a tv show why does it have to be put under a microscope if you don't like it don't watch it. I like Scandal and How to get away with murder they have Adultery, gay sex and Black people are in these rolls as well young and old in all three shows somebody is doing what they should not be doing black and white' lighten- up PLEASE.
White people don't have to prove themselves to other white people. So why would they need to maintain a positive light in viewers eyes? When there is a false perception of being superior to all others, to whom do you need to prove yourself to? Blacks have been battling negative stereotypical perceptions of themselves for far too long and this foolishness needs to stop. Then we (black people) wonder why our lives aren't fully valued. From a psychological perspective: if you tell a child he/she isn't worth the dirt on the floor, sooner than later that child will soon believe this notion and will act out in ways to live up to his/her standards set by someone else. ONE LOVE!
Why…do you 'STILL' have the MENTALITY that YOU have to show ANYBODY…ANYTHING! If you haven't convinced yourself by now that you are somewhat 'ACCEPTABLE' in the eyes of those you want to APPEAL too…then I suggest you try a good BLEACHING CREAM!
J Rome Tucker Why…do you 'STILL' have the MENTALITY that YOU have to show ANYBODY…ANYTHING! If you haven't convinced yourself by now that you are somewhat 'ACCEPTABLE' in the eyes of those you want to APPEAL too…then I suggest you try a good BLEACHING CREAM!
IT IS. The ratings are great (just like Boardwalk) Bunch or CROOKS (White & Black)(just like Boardwalk) Sex (Black &White, separate & together & Gay) The show is a hit! Good!
Best response I've read so far! It's insane we get so flared up over programming we know is not real yet I never see this level of contempt towards these reality shows! We spend more time being pitted against one another than supporting! We should be mad we don't have more black produced shows on FOX! I definitely agree we should be demonstrating in our daily lives and our communities the images or examples we want others to know us for!
I dont give a damn what they think but all this stuff does is gove them justification for killing us. These grand juries and juries absolve white men of guilt because we portray ourselves as criminals and clowns so thats clearly what we are. Not guilty! The positive inages are for our children. They dont have the benefit of the village mentality that the 30 pus crowd received. They are mentally weak from being raised by children themselves. It goes deeper than the surface
Selentia TheMotivator Moore – you expressed it well. Nothing else need to be said.
So just because a black person makes a television show… It excuses what Fox creates? No both are wrong and portraying Blacks in a negative light
THANK YOU!
backstair if you want advertisement money you should give solutions and stop just pointing the finger just to say "first" y'all suck for this article. whenever something that has black people is wildly successful we tear its validity down. fuck off.
backstair if you want advertisement money you should give solutions and stop just pointing the finger just to say "first" y'all suck for this article. whenever something that has black people is wildly successful we tear its validity down. fuck off.
Some black women are so blind my Jesus could heal them but they still wouldnt see. Black women who give a pass to this trash for entertainment SPEAKS VOLUMES about why our communities are the way they are. They are basically telling the world that they dont know crap about mothering. Thanks to those some black women! My late mom included, i love and forgive her. But she never even tried to be a mother to me & my brother. My mom was hood as hood could get. I chased after my education and she would tear me down every chance she got, but i still made it though, thank God. I cant tell you how many black families with women who give more praise and love to the thugs in their families but will treat the law abiding achieving child like a cast away. Just backwards i tell ya.
PLEASE turn off your televisions.
After that, all problems will have the space to fix themselves.
We are all on here sharing our opinions. Instead of talking about what this show is doing to our community. What are you personally doing to make it better?
Now let's debate about that?
Ever seen a black super hero on TV? Dont worry I'll wait. And while im waiting, let me explain what television or better yet, TELL-A-VISION really is. Our God commanded his people to never make any graven images that includes pictures. Because the minute we do we will be controlled by the images, taking our focus off the Lord making the image our idol.
Really? This is a freakin tv show. Gee Wiz. Shut up
Saaraa Bailey wrote in a review for whispersofawomanist.com: “Empire Creator Danny Strong speaks of a riding in a car and coming up with the idea of Empire while listening to a Jay Z or Puffy song. While I am sure this story read well on paper, it is problematic that a white man conceptualized Black wealth as intertwined with drugs.”.
Saaraa Bailey wrote in a review for whispersofawomanist.com: “Empire Creator Danny Strong speaks of a riding in a car and coming up with the idea of Empire while listening to a Jay Z or Puffy song. While I am sure this story read well on paper, it is problematic that a white man conceptualized Black wealth as intertwined with drugs.”.
Saaraa Bailey wrote in a review for whispersofawomanist.com: “Empire Creator Danny Strong speaks of a riding in a car and coming up with the idea of Empire while listening to a Jay Z or Puffy song. While I am sure this story read well on paper, it is problematic that a white man conceptualized Black wealth as intertwined with drugs.”.
Brotha and Sista's yall are missing my point. The point is we as African Americans can't take ignorance when it's thrown in our faces. Instead we'd rather listen to the same ignorant entertainment that degrades and demeans the black culture only, musically.
Where are the comments for the articles that speak on how 2 chains, rick ross, lil wayne, cash money…etc. negatively impact the black community? Folks are listening to that stuff everyday and its belittling to our community. You cant possibly believe that its not brainwashing. Impossible. And Its completely, and utterly subconscious so much that we allow it/ disregard it. And so now we want to talk about something representing us wrong? You should really do your research on this show/cast before you pass judgement. At least these folks are actually just ACTING…hence the name "T.V. show" Quinton Harris Kelly Pugh-Wiggins LaShonda Ard.
All this hoopla and denial on this thread. I ask every single one of you who are complaining about what this show portrays or doesn't portray; how Blacks are always stereotypically cast; how we need more shows on tv that uplift the Black People: WHAT YOU GOT? Quit talking about is get your work! If you don't have a better plan of action or anything BETTER to produce on tv then sitcho ass down and either watch or DON'T!
There have been plenty of positive black shows. Cosby, Family Matters, Blackish.. Just to name a few. And frankly Empire is more entertaining and a closer representation of my life than any of those.
well J Rome Blackish comes on at 9:30 while Empire is running so you can change the channel to that. You have options.
Then again black folks complain about Blackish… ffs
And another thing. Why are we so stuck on this being a "black show" I have never heard anyone refer to Fraser or Friends as a good White Program. Let's move on and watch some Hulu
If a majority of the black population is looking up to the negative stereotypes about us. It's pretty reasonable to say ….it's not simply entertainment. It's DETRIMENTAL! You're entertainment shouldn't contribute to your cultures demise. Any progressive black knows the difference between what going to get you ahead and what's gonna hold you back…that's not the issue. The issue is that NOT ENOUGH OF US ARE PROGRESSIVE YET!! And this is what most connect with. Think about how dangerous that is to our culture…
You ever heard a song you did not like, but couldn't stop singing it? Anything you consume can affect you without you being conscious of it. This is the way the human brain works. Couple that fact with repetition and you are programming a human being. Why do you think they repeat the phone number several times in a comercial?
Art is the manipulation of the mind. That's why you feel emotions when you view art. The purpose of art is to manipulate you. These people are professional mind manipulators.
You can believe" it's just a tv show" all you want. You're probably the type that buys a lot of crap you don't need. I suppose you're fine with being manipulated. The more you feel that the stuff you consume doesn't affect you, the more susceptible you are to it.
You ever heard a song you did not like, but couldn't stop singing it? Anything you consume can affect you without you being conscious of it. This is the way the human brain works. Couple that fact with repetition and you are programming a human being. Why do you think they repeat the phone number several times in a comercial?
Art is the manipulation of the mind. That's why you feel emotions when you view art. The purpose of art is to manipulate you. These people are professional mind manipulators.
You can believe" it's just a tv show" all you want. You're probably the type that buys a lot of crap you don't need. I suppose you're fine with being manipulated. The more you feel that the stuff you consume doesn't affect you, the more susceptible you are to it.
J Rome Tucker TV is not why white people criminalize us. TV didn't even exist when they decided to criminalize people of color. Being black was enough to make us criminals. You're wrong.
So by your logic they are going to do it anyway so we may as well be entertained in the meantime. Lets not present a better image so that the youth can see something different. Let think we are all about dope,music, and confused gender roles. I get it now. They cant win anyway right.
I am amazed at how many people say, "It's just entertainment." It's not just entertainment. It is never just entertainment whether it is a white cast or black cast. TV shapes our society, often in subliminal and negative ways. Some people are really lost. White supremacy is a deep rooted and vicious animal. Zoom…that last statement just went over some folks heads.
Which generation? I'm a boomer…Love Empire..
Entertainment, Blackploitation Or a Report of the untold truths behind success in the Black Entertainment World…? Interesting.
I agree with everything J Rome Tucker said. How many positive black role models are on television? In the 90s we had a host of black tv dad's that showed black males doing positive things. Fresh Prince, black male was a judge, Family Matter black male was a cop, Cosby Show, Different World, I can keep going. In 2015, black role models on television are drug dealers, and rappers. I refuse to support this crap.
Thank you J Rome Tucker! Not all black people have been anesthesized. It is refreshing to know there are black people who see the big picture.
Ok everybody just chill it's just a show at least the charters are getting paid its all bout the money
Thank you, Cecil Max-George! And, you can say that again!!!
Worldwide there is no sympathy for us because anything goes and we have no standards. The racial pride is at a minimum. All the outrage about the sorority show because it supposedly misrepresented their "prestigous" organization but screw your race. All of the other nonsense is ok. The conscious ones among us cant continue to defend the whole community against the white supremacist rhetoric when we continue to wallow in the slop.
Some black wealth does come from drugs, as some American wealth from slavery, prohibition, Ponzi schemes and whatever else they do illegally. Have you seen The House of Cards are you kidding me? I don't see white people stating this makes us look evil… You know what I do when I don't like a television show? I don't watch. I suggest you do the same.
The longer I live,(67) the more a nagging question keeps popping up.Why are there so many dictators among the Black leaders. Could it be that a lot of us cannot tolerate an opposing view.instead of complain,organize and tell your own story. Melvin Van Peeples found a way to go around the establishment and that was over 40yrs ago when he did Sweet Back. There is too much talent and creativity among us."up you mighty Race,you can accomplish what you will."Marcus Garvey..
J Rome Tucker ya know! that movie was the catalyst for how white people see/judge us.
garbage.
why would they make a show depicting normal working class black ppl for a damn drama. thats would be boring and no one would watch it. and most dramas regardless of the race of the cast has decent terrible mothers and drugs. i mean hello sons of anarchy breaking bad and Nashville
African Americans have an extremely difficult time getting the Hollywood Executives to greenlight any projects, especially those with primarily black casts. So, when one is approved, like Empire, I am happy as it provides jobs for unemployed actors, producers, directors, etc. There are aspects of Empire that probably make some of our stomachs churn, but I enjoy the show overall and am just glad to see people who look like me on the screen – albeit in the form of a very dysfunctional family. BTW, a whole lot of people find Tyler Perry's shows enjoyable. As many have said, they can sit back, laugh and leave the racism, unemployment, marital problems, and other miseries that are out there in the world, behind for the two hours or so that they are in the theater or in front of the TV. We all know who we are, and we know that the characters in a movie or TV show do not represent us. They certainly do not represent me. As long as we are confident in our own skin, and conduct our lives in civilly, legally and socially acceptable manner, no one else can define us!
I bet you anything that if a show depicting black people in a more "positive" light was put out on tv, the same people who are making the outcry would not be watching it! Boring, not entertaining enough, too white. Case in point "Reed Between the Lines" on BET with Tracy Ellis Ross and Malcolm Jamal Warner. The show lasted 1 season. Well. …being on BET is a whole nother issue. We'll see how long "Blackish" on ABC lasts.
So Damn true..small minds..
There has always been some form of media or instrument whereby mass communication was achieved such that the spread of propaganda and indoctrination was achieved, even if it was good old-fashioned word-of-mouth. Albeit, much slower and not nearly as widespread as what modern day media is capable of, the avenue still existed. We should care about how other races view us for the same reasons why you should care about how others view you as an individual. Perception is very key. It is extremely powerful. It can open doors and it can close doors. Doors are opportunities; a chance. It is equally important that black people, as a conglomerate, see to it that we present ourselves in a more positive light in reality. It is up to us to make sure that our black lives do not imitate this art, regardless how good the acting is, or how intriguing the drama may be, or how many black thespians are employed.
I never watched "White people " in movies, sitcoms, series etc, with the thought "oooh they are making movies that sheds a negative light on the way white people live, talk, walk or act". Its television, movies, or plays. The ACTORS are ACTING out roles that some one wrote and they are portraying. Its their JOB, a skill they have developed and they do it well enough to make a living, like you do on your JOB. When Denzel was doing his Job in Training Day and won an Oscar, did you ever think to yourself, Ain't no way this "BLACK " policeman is doing all this and getting away with it. we enjoyed the movie for what it was and the great JOB Denzel did and getting the role that had no color when it was written. Taraji is a awesome actor who does her JOB effortlessly and ya'll know a sista talk, and walk like that. Terrance is an awesome actor, who can play a guitar but can't sing worth shyt. Stop putting show that the Black acors are in under a microscope, Its their JOB get your personal feeling and your life out of it….Its ENTERTAINMENT. Don't like, Don"t watch. STOP criticizing our Actors, writers, producers for doing the JOBS they were trained to do, like you..,……….I'm not an armchair critic. I just watch TV in mine.
Why is everyone trippin on this show. He was a drug dealer because circumstances. We can't always help where we started. But he chased his dreams to get out and did what he had to do. But the show isn't about him being a drug dealer,it's about him being a label owner. The flash backs only show his life before to give a perspective. People will always have negative things to say about blacks, with or without shows. The reason the show is good is because every black person knows someone like the ppl on the show, just financially in the opposite direction.
Well for some reason….the show makes me feel baddddd deep inside of me When it first aired I was excited. The more I watched the worse I felt. I just faded out don't watch it anymore.
This is why Black people can't get ahead, we our worst enemy. I love the show better than the other black show. White folks has all type of shows on TVand you never hear them complaining. Empire, keep it moving!
Tam Weavemaster Rachelle you need to wake up!
Honestly we can't complain about not having enough shows about "us" then we have an opportunity to rival scandal in ratings then we start knit picking away at the black image … Yes some of its exaggerated but this is pretty authentic to how some people live ..this is just entertainment place your dismay for black television on those reality shows
Somebody please mention the fashion is out of the 90's. It's how "they" perceive the industry to look based on the popularity of hip-hop in the 90's. If you look at entertainers today you rarely see the thick gold chains and giant medallions, flat top hair cuts with designs in them? Where are the natural dreads and close cuts? Most top hip hop artists dress like they stepped out of Forbs and not like Flavor Flav when he was with Public Enemy!
the fact that you object to the show's gay themes yet have nothing to say about it just shows that you don't get it, and that you are in denial about how pervasive homophobia is among black men in america.
Black people hate to see other black people successed…Damn shame!
How does TV "fail" Black People? Does TV lift us anywhere? Does TV define us? How did we define ourselves before the TV?
The show is great (and those people actually exist) but where are the shows made by US that show the other side. I been wanting to see a series about Black Wall Street before the massacre or a series about or around George Washington Carver. We (african Americans) have an advantage because we can play in any international market.
We can do if we want to but we keep sitting around wanting to be catered too but hating wants for dinner.
I personally wish African Americans would stop being a negativity magnet.
I'm so disappointed. The author of this article missed one very important reason Empire is failing the black race. ITS TERRIBLY WRITTEN! I can look past the stereotypical portrayal of the black experience (like the author, I'm over it too) but what I can't look past is the plot holes so wide you could drive a semi truck through it. What's even more upsetting is the waste of talent. Tarji is an exceptional actress, and to see her strutting around calling people "Boo Boo Kitty" just hurts my heart. People may disagree with Shonda's Olivia Pope, but at least Shonda and the good writers over on Scandal are giving Kerri Washington some real text; text worth my time. After an episode of Scandal, I literally have lines of text stuck in my mind simply because of how well they were written. The problem with Empire is, its all thriller and no filler. The creators seem to be more obsessed with creating fireworks than storytelling; hence the plot holes. At times, it even plays like a telenovela (a Spanish soap opera). And then we get upset at the lack of color at the oscars. Wake up black people! This is not good art. We, as black people, are not consistently putting out good art…and good art starts with a good story; a believable one. Where's our "Breaking Bad" or "Homeland" or "House of Cards"
Shared from my Facebook page:
I feel where they're coming from, but at the same time, this is BS. This show is fiction. We shouldn't have to prove that we are "normal people too" with fictional television shows. The problem isn't with how black people are portrayed on TV, it's with moronic viewers stereotyping an entire race because of a fake show. If people have a problem with how black people are being portrayed in this show, then maybe they need to put out their own shows that show black people more positively, or just don't watch this one.
I don't see anyone complaining about Breaking Bad, The Sopranos, SOA, Dexter, etc and how they portray white people. Dexter is a freaking serial killer but he's the protagonist that everyone loved. I don't think all white people are meth dealers or serial killers, because I know these are made up stories that sensationalize a very small part of the actual real world and white population. Black people should not have to deny themselves the same forms of entertainment that other races can enjoy, other races need to learn the difference between real life and tv. Try actually interacting with real black people instead of treating shows like Empire or Power as if they're a National Geographic special on the black species in its natural habitat.
What I do have a problem with is trashy ass "reality" shows. Those shows actually try to present themselves as real life representations of actual people, when in fact, they are fabricated trash that blur the lines between fiction and reality. People actually believe that shows like that are real, and I'm sure that doesn't help their naive minds separate anything on tv ("reality" or fiction) from real life. If you're going to show bad people on tv, don't lie and say that they are real when they aren't.
Either way, watching empire does not give you the right to think all black people are drug dealers any more than playing grand theft auto gives you the right to think it's ok to run people over, kill hookers and get into shootouts with police.
While I see his point, what show doesn't expose dysfunction? One of the most popular TV shows ever "Breaking Bad" was nothing but dysfunctional, but that is because humans like seeing train wrecks. It's almost like it makes them feel better abort their own life. Now I do agree that Empire reinforces stereotypes but if 9 million people view it regularly than there will be more shows like this. I would like to see more positive shows that depict everyday African Americans but it should be well written and interesting enough to draw viewers. In other words positive shows must also have quality as well
Im all about black empowerment but some people jus take it too far…. Its a t.v. show for 1 fiction an IN every show like this has to have drama its the attention factor its a soap opera with black people… Smh people like the person who made this article is the reason why blacks cant get ahead jus think about how many new black actors got a career boost from this show an who cares what race created the show cause honestly i feel if tyler perry wouldve created it… it wouldnt be as big as it is an it wouldnt have my attention cause im tired of madea honestly
I like the show! It's entertaining. Who wants to see a show about my work a day, pay bills,raising kids, single father life …… when I get a chance to sit down and watch TV, I'm not tryin to see my life ….
I am SOOOOOO tired of this.
I can remember some critics claiming the Cosby Show was a milquetoast, watering down of black folk…unrealistic, pie in the sky whitewashing. The Wire draws critical accolades and praise despite it's anti heroes were violent, occasionally sociopathic drug dealers….or gay, shotgun toting Robin Hood archetypes. Blackish is sellout humor. Scandal is some sweeping statement about the black woman. Empire is "coonery". Apparently Power isn't.
Just what SHOULD a show featuring the talents of black performers, writers, producers look like?
Apparently what we need is a governing body that places the "Proper Representation of All Black Folk In General" seal on any and all movies and shows, since the impression white America has of us is based primarily on the fictional characters served up on their TV screens.
And all Italians are gangsters.
When you are blind…..you can't lead anyone! There is no need to point a finger if it's pointed in the wrong direction. The idiot box…I mean Tel-lie-vision controls the masses. This one tool is worst than a gun that's put to your head. Until you can "over stand" that you will always fall victim to "the man that's behind" the curtain and their subliminal messages. They have learn the art of mind control through the very devices we can't seem to live without. The term "Wake up" means to realize when your being taking advantage of….so "Wake Up all people….all races".
Only thing hurting black are black people, the shoe fits and unfourtantly we wear it!
The reality is this. It didn't matter what entertainment black people are portrayed in, someone will always have a problem with it. If the characters are jokers then people run around saying "shuck&jive" if they sleep around then they hos. Shows featuring other races do the same things. The thing is, none wants to see a boring drama about upstanding doctors or lawyers that play it straight. Ever watch the news? The killings get the whole first half. The fluff pieces get the 5 seconds with the credits at the end.
I do understand the point of the piece written here but blaming this show on the perceptions of blacks is a tad bit short sited. I do believe there are ways to repair the image of the black community but putting a bunch of black actors and directors out of work I'd nit the best start. Using the money from it to build businesses in the less fortunate neighborhood to assist as opposed to making a profit is a start. The powerful blacks that we look up to, could easily build a store in the hood and pay a great wage with decent health care and break even but nah, that won't happen. Curtis, direct your commentary at them instead of this particular show.
Olivia Pope's fault of loving a married man isn't a stereotype. She is well educated, revered by some. People come to her to fix their problems. As bad as her father is he is educated as well. Her parents were married ( although they led double lives) and raised her in an upper middle-class home. Empire gives us the same old tired story. Former drug dealer makes music, makes money and starts a record company. The show is filled with Black stereotypes.
The show is disgraceful Lee Daniels is a shill a house nigger for Rupert Murdoch and if this good Black TV programming we are so behind.
Ok…here is my spin. First off, I have watched the show. i know some people in the music industry and from the stories I have heard, this show is spot on in showing the ruthlessness of this industry. An ambitious, innocent and talented person, with good creative intentions, could more than likely end up like one of the frayed, dysfuntional and wounded main characters depicted in this show. In my opinion, most of them are a bunch of train wrecks doomed to failure. And I believe that as the series continues, these characters are going to all implode. Lee Daniels, the producer of the show, who also produced the film The Butler, is a brilliant writer. In my opinion he is above producing some trashy, buffon-like, stereotypical "business as usual" potrayal of black people being pimps, hoes and drug dealers……..and he is above doing this just for money. Yes I agree that the show is raw, at times down right ratchet, and unfiltered. I can also definitely see how it can offend the ethics and politics of some. But for a lot of people, especially the younger generations, who look up to and want to get into the industry, they need to see an in-your-face, cut-throat, "this is what you want to sell your soul for" portrayal of what they can expect. As I mention earlier, I believe as the series continues, the storyline is going to twist these characters into nightmarish monsters that will further expose the crimes and rip offs of black artists that have plagued us for years. Maybe this will help dim some of the shine and bling of the industry, and maybe make some kids step back and say, "Damn…..do I really want to do this?" Let's hope so, and let's give Lee Daniels more of a chance to further develop his story line.
Its T.v. thats it entertainment when you look it it to raise your kids or shape perception of the black community or anything else otber than just enjoying seeing a good show then you need to reevaluate. You and yours
To see how the serpent (white women) slighter their way in the pockets of the coon Negroes-is quite impressive, and on point. The show is on air, those characters are getting paid;would it be to our advantage to use this particular IMAGERY to our advantage to show how one took filth and grew from it. If that's a part of Empires script-it can be a good thing. In fact, it would be an American story of modern era (if that's the case). On the flip side; those Black/A.A characters may be making contributions to underprivileged Black/A.A communities, and or institutions. Yes I get the stereotyping, and gutter imagery of our Brothers and Sisters, but one can take those lemons and make lemonade. Frankly speaking;we are having a dialogue NOW.
Just goes to show, people will do anything for money. They'll say "yeah it's going to defame the character of blacks but think of the ratings". That's what Wendy (walter Williams), Mona Scott and others are thinking before they put this foolishness they call entertainment on tv, I'm convinced. But who's trying to stop them? Don't worry I'll wait until black people are fed up enough
I'm so sick of this black & white mess!! All the shows that have white people killing I guess I should look at that as that's what white people do is kill… Why
I don't disapprove of the premise of the show. After all its just that….A TV SHOW. We must stop being so narcissistic and thinking that everything is a reflection of all of "us". I don't see myself or anyone I personally know in those characters. I think "others" in the world can tell the difference between the show and reality. Because if "they" are honest, most of them don't personally know anyone like those characters either. It's just like this: I love watching the Sopranos, The Godfather and Wise Guys, but out of All the Italian Americans I've personally met and known, never have known any to be gangsters or thugs. NOW, ON THE OTHER HAND, I think the writing on this show horrible!! Almost like it was written for children. Making it crappy tv (sorry Taraji & Terrence) ( I love y'all). Power produced by 50 Cents is better written.
And I guess because I am a true TV-aholic and have been all my life (especially drama tv) and having watched countless shows where white characters are NOT always good, or "positive", smart or upright role models with perfect ideal family values. The point is not, "all white people are good and perfect" but the fact that they were ON the TV screen!. So now people, IF we are wanting & ready to see more black folks ON TV, we need understand it is not ALL going to (nor do we want it to) look like the Crosby Show (Great show, by the way).
Hell, I can't wait to see a black version of Game of Thrones with black characters beheading their king and having sex with their sister.
Y'all know what I mean…don't judge me
#dramaqueen
Power is NOT a Showtime series. It's on Starz.
This is just for entertainment..don't take it d o serious
If tv shows were exactly like real life why would we watch them? I think most people are intelligent enough to discern that real people don't behave the way characters on tv shows behave. This show is purely for entertainment purposes, what's not to love?
Empire is a joke of a show
No back up Watkins, I have enjoyed the entertainment of dysfunctional white family since the 1980s Mama Family. I get that the entertainment is not always fair to our creed of people, but based on what I see on facebook, we as a community have much work to do on our own without the touch from the media. I like the show and I see it is a spin off the movie Hustle and Flow which won a lot of acclaim… my opinion
We live in a world where you can't win for trying. Many people will probably say Cosby show was the best example out there, but it was criticized as being unrealistic in regards to the black experience when it came out. How many African Americans had a 2 parent home with 5 children and housed a Dr and a Lawyer. Fresh Prince and Martin all provided great examples but we live in a different world where everyones small opinion is offered and can be found, and served up as valid criticism, not so in the mid 80's-90's. I'm sure just as many folks would decry Will Smiths "homeboy antics" Steve Urkel's "nerd-coon" stylings or something as small as Moesha's "ghetto" name. As far as negative vs positive, you can't argue against Tyler Perry's attempt at positive productions, he's probably the only person working on a consistent basis who produces moral characters even if you want to argue against his uber-christian over-simplified moralizing. Ultimately what I'm saying is that there will always be a pocket or segment of any community that takes issue with any type of portrayal no matter what it is, from either end of the spectrum or even if its railing against the safeness of playing the middle ground and not taking a stance. I think artists should take the stance of Zora Neal Hurston who was widely criticized by black authors of her day for not writing a protest novel that attacked racism instead of some book about a lady stuck in a bad marriage like Their Eyes Were Watching God. At the end of the day the good art will win and survive and if you don't like what's out there work on something that you would like to see, if Issa Rae can maneuver into a TV deal from a few episodes of Awkward Black Girl on youtube, there's nothing stopping anyone else from making what they want to see in contrast to living with the crap they hate.
I will be quite honest I actually enjoyed this show initially, but reading this article has given me a brand new perception. Normally, I catch images like this. I feel a bit foolish for not recognizing it for myself. I don't know what else to say…
This is what I don’t understand. How come when white people get a show like Dallas or Dynasty it dose not make all of then look bad. Not one white person protested movies like Dumb and Dumber because it made the white race look bad. This show is Dynasty or Dallas but with a Black cast. If you cant tell the difference real people from characters on a TV them you might have the intelligence the to make a dumb statement like that.