Today in class, we discussed black men in reality television. The shows that were discussed were, "The Cosby Show", "Snoop Dogg's Fatherhood", and "Run's House". All of these shows display the father figure, actively involved within the household, but are these shows as geniune as they seem? The class discussed how the Huxtables, from the "Cosby Show", displayed black pride, which at the time of the show, was much needed. It was said that the show trancended racial boundaries, meaning that the Cosby's made it "safe" to be a African American. The cast of the show was voided of all stereotypes that face the African American community, as well as, showing stability, heritage, and education among the family. However, many classmates believed that the show did not keep it "real". These students say that it is not believeable for a black family to always be in the house at all times, as well as, both of the parents being both a doctor and a lawyer. These classmates also believe that it is not likely that the kids in the family, which there are many of them, not to ever get in trouble themselves. The stereotypes of the African American family was not displayed within the show, making the show hard to believe for many, and not likely. With stereotypes being mentioned, "Snoop Dogg's Fatherhood" is a show that displays many of the stereotypes that the black community faces in day to day life. The whole class agreed that the show seemed like it was staged, not exactly real life. One classmate mentioned that the show was keeping it "real", showing how many black families act and react to situations. These stereotypes that were discussed, such as black people with fried chicken, and watermelon, brought a debate among the class. Some believed that this is real, it is more than likely that most African Americans do portray these stereotypes, while others said that the stereotypes are extremely offensive and completely wrong. The class also watched "Run's House", which displayed the man and the wife present within the household, which breaks the myths about the African American Community.The myths are that all these shows deals with racism, economic stress, or other societal barriers. All of the shows that were discussed, some break the molds of what is to be believed of black families, and others show the stereotypes believed within the community. I believe that each of these shows that were discussed were unique in their own way, each show displays that it is possible to have both parents present within a household, and it is possible to make a living and have enough time to spend with the children.
By: Kinzi Deslatte
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I was one of the students who felt as though "SnoopDoggsFatherhood" kept it "real" as you said. It was easier for me as an African American to relate to the family life presented by Snoop and his family. Although he is an entertainer I felt as though he still kept true to who he was throughout the show. I thought the show was incredibly funny and I did not feel as though he put a bad name on the black dad. He is still involved in his children's lives and that is something that I find to be incredibly positive for young African American men who might tune into the show.I did not feel that the The Cosbys did a good job of making African Americans feel as though they could relate but the show was more of an example of what could be or another way of living.
ReplyDeleteI've got to agree with Michell, Snoop Doggs Fatherhood is a way more realistic portrayal of the way a family interacts compared to the Cosby Show. The Cosby Show doesnt seem to be realistic regardless of what race you are. But then again I guess that is why Snoop Doggs Fatherhood is considered a reality show and the Cosby Show is'nt.
ReplyDeleteI was a student who expressed disdain for the "SnoopDoggsFatherhood" this show in my opinion played upon the most common stereotypes and in a way depicts black families shucking and jiving. In the episode shown in class there was about three or four main events that support my claim. First in the beginning of the show, Snoop Dogg is lounging on the couch, eating fried chicken, and watching sport. This depicted him as the tradition black lazy man. It also played on the stereotype that all black people eat and love chicken. The second time we saw negative stereotypes is when his wife entered the room where Snoop was lounging, wearing the stereotypical head scarf that can be seen on the "MAMIE" characters in historical depictions of black women. We furthermore see stereotypes when we see Snoops constantly focused on Chicken and getting Chicken by any means necessary even if it means lying to his wife. The goes more into the black people and chicken stereotype but it also depicts the black man as the lair that even his own wife can't trust. Snoops infacutation with chicken would force him to lie to his wife in order to have his chicken. We moreover see stereotypes in depicting his wife as the "Boss Lady" this in my eyes shines light on the fact that it has been black women in recent decades that have carried the house hold and it shows that black me have a problem leading his family. Lastly Snoops daughter was shown to be outspoken and sassy, which are stereotypical characteristics of most black females. Whom ever produced this show, produced it well because they were able to display stereotypical shucking and jiving with in the black family without being over the top. They masked it so well to where blacks themselves who are uneducated may not be able to identify these stereotypes. This show is not a show that I would watch or encourage others to watch. This is not the real and typical black family. It is very disheartening when we have black people agreeing that this is us and easy to relate to.
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ReplyDeleteI have to disagree with Joe and Michell. I didn't think the show was real. Even though I feel as like the show it eliminated some negative stereotypes of black men,I didn't feel like it was real. I say this because of how the conversations flowed throughout the show or this episode with his kids, his wife, the famous soccer player and his self. It seemed very scripted to me. I didn't like the show though because of this but when you see that a reality show is not real as it seems, it's hard for you to want to pay attention to it. Run's House was a more realistic reality show to me. It showed everything Snoop's showed but you could tell he was being himself. Thir family didn't change how they act or Run didn't change how he disciplined his kids because the cameras were on. I feel like he was being himself along with his family. I could relate to this more than Snoop's show
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