

See It Loud: The History of Black Television
2023– · CNN · 60 min · 1 season
S01E05 · Galaxies Beyond
Mon, 7 Aug, 11:00 am
For years, many believed the Black community did not have an interest in horror, superheroes, or science fiction due to limited on-screen representation. Discover the rich history of roles and emerging opportunities for Black voices in this space.
About
See It Loud: The History of Black Television celebrates the achievements of Black actors and creators, examining the historical impact Black culture has on all culture. Today we are in the midst of what is being widely referred to as "The Golden Age of Black Television;" however, this "Golden Age" is the culmination of an eighty-year struggle for Black artists to find a voice and fight for representation, beginning in the 1950s with Amos n' Andy, which was the first series to feature Black characters. This series takes viewers on a journey from Black television's origins in sitcoms like The Jeffersons to blockbuster dramas like Roots, explores the emerging opportunities for Black voices in sci-fi and horror, and examines the cultural impact of the reality and unscripted genre on Black culture. Each episode in this five-part series explores the impact of these stories not only on their creators but on the audiences watching them, forging connections and building communities of shared experience. See It Loud explores the vast history of Black television through iconic performances across various genres, including sitcoms, comedy, drama, unscripted, variety, and science fiction.
Episodes
- E01
Sitcom-ish
Mon, 10 July· 60 minTo understand how far Black television has come, we must first visit the earliest type of Black television: the sitcom. Explore the legendary sitcoms that shaped our childhoods and inspired our futures.
- E02
Laughing Out Loud
Mon, 17 July· 60 minThere is no denying the power of Black comedy in the world. Dive into how comedy, specifically stand-up and variety, are at the center of Black television, defining the cultural landscape.
- E03
Drama Deconstructed
Mon, 24 July· 60 minDrama shows us a side of the human condition that are familiar, introducing us to characters like the real people in our lives. Reflect on the way that Black performers and creators have forged a path in dramatic television.
- E04
Keeping It Real
Mon, 31 July· 60 minOne of the most underrated and underestimated forms of television is the genre of unscripted. Go inside how reality television, talk shows, and competition series are amongst the leading forms of television showcasing Black culture and talent.
- E05
Galaxies Beyond
Mon, 7 Aug· 60 minFor years, many believed the Black community did not have an interest in horror, superheroes, or science fiction due to limited on-screen representation. Discover the rich history of roles and emerging opportunities for Black voices in this space.




