Breaking the Mold: Stereotypical Representation of Black People in Television and Film
Last week’s, release of the 70’s sitcom classic, “Good Times,” cartoon remake has been met with backlash and criticism from journalists, organizations, and casual television viewers alike, with most arguing the cartoon reinforces stereotypical representations Black audiences have fought against for decades. Although many of the show’s stars have come to the defense of the reimagined show, many critics express disappointment that a major studio ever greenlit the reimagined series.
Since television and film’s inception, Black audiences have been subjected to stereotypical representations ranging from the mammy, the heavy-set Black woman who is often the caretaker for white families to the Sambo character, a Black man depicted as lazy and lacking intellect. More contemporarily, we’ve seen tropes of the “angry Black woman” or the drug-dealing Black man with little regard for his community. Although numerous think pieces and research have examined the influence of stereotypical portrayals of Black individuals in the media, there is a need for discussion about the role of viewers when those responsible for creating these depictions share our racial identity.
Not only stereotypical depictions have harmful effects on the audiences being portrayed, but they also shape the perceptions and attitudes of society who point to these images for justification to discriminate against people of color. Before Black people had access to resources to counteract these images, the logical reaction was to take ownership of our narratives. However, even when we are in charge of our storytelling, it can still echo the historic stereotypes ingrained in television history.
*Enter “Good Times” remake*
Described as a “hilarious unpredictable adult animated comedy” in its Netflix description, the “Good Times’” 2 minute 43 second trailer includes a drug dealing baby, social commentary about “the man” planting guns in Black neighborhoods and neighborhood shoot out, teetering the line of offensive stereotypes, with drops of social justice commentary. I recognize that entertainment sometimes is just that, entertainment. But I find myself questioning intent. Why is it important to include a drug-dealing character? Are you depicting an experience that is essential in depicting Black experiences on screen or are you merely creating these images for shock value?
The critically acclaimed film "American Fiction" shed light on the complex dynamic between media content and its fixation on the Black struggle. It underscored the dilemma faced by many content creators: whether to challenge industry norms and craft nuanced narratives or adhere to historic standards of stereotypical representation. Many scholars have concluded that Black storytellers are forced to create narratives that reinforce these stereotypes in order to get support from major studios, while others say that our varied media platforms give content creators freedom that hasn’t been afforded to Black creatives in the past.
Representation matters and authentic and diverse representation is essential in combatting stereotypes and promoting social justice. Stereotypical representations limits opportunities for authentic and diverse storytelling, but as with any other form of art, content creators should have the freedom to tell the stories they way they want with no limitations – even if they are stereotypical. Do Black creators have the responsibility to uphold a standard of excellence and positivity in everything that is created? Today, media consumers are empowered to be vocal against oppressive programming. Many producers and writers defend their artistic freedom while also acknowledging their responsibility to avoid harmful stereotypes Viewer boycotts, online criticism and lack of support from major studios has forced content creators to be responsible for the implications of their content, but sometimes it’s not enough.
As we continue to have conversations about the importance of uplifting the Black experience in the media, Black audiences should also continue to demand more authentic storytelling that challenges traditional stereotypes. The Black experience is nuanced and complex and audiences shouldn’t settle for portrayals that depict them as anything than less.