Tune In: Diversity + Network TV

@igobyvanessa on IG
Jun 9, 2016
2 min read

How often do you hear, “they don’t make TV like that no more!” Well, it’s happening. Here are three TV sitcoms that showcase black families, and how they tackle parenting, black culture, and common stereotypes.

1. Black-ish. Anthony Anderson plays the role of Andre “Dre” Johnson, the family patriarch worries his family isn’t in touch with black culture due to their affluent upbringing. Played alongside Tracee Ellis Ross, as his wife, Rainbow, the couple struggle with parenting styles, and face normal parental obstacles. In the midst of normal family stress, and a cultural identity crisis, the opinions of his in-laws, and old-school father, makes the show more magical.

Catch Black-ish on Wednesday nights on ABC. Creator: Kenya Barris. Starring (left to right): Marsai Martin (Diane Johnson), Miles Brown (Jack Johnson), Laurence Fishburne (Pops), Yara Shahidi (Zoey Johnson), Marcus Scribner (Andre Johnson, Jr.), Anthony Anderson (Dre Johnson), Tracee Ellis Ross (Rainbow Johnson)

2. The Carmichael Show. Stand-up comedian Jerrod Carmichael, has brought his outspoken family to our televisions, and they have been tackling issues such as gun control, the trans community, and even Bill Cosby. Also starring, David Alan Grier, and everyone’s favorite ‘momma’, Loretta Divine, the show gives rawness, which for a moment, network sitcoms stayed away from. The show was recently renewed 13 additional episodes to return for a third season on NBC.

3. Marlon. This show is yet to premiere on NBC but I’m excited none the less. Actor-producer-comedian is joined on screen by Essense Atkins, who plays his ex-wife, and together they are co-parenting two kids. We expect him to bring the family, especially with his family background, and we can’t wait to see how him and Essence turns up the comedic chemistry on this project. The show will be part of NBCs 2016-17 broadcast season. Starring cast also include Essence Atkins, Notlim Taylor, Amir O’neal. Pilot date has not yet been released, but we will keep you updated.