Creator of TV hit ‘Black-ish’ tired of all the ‘diversity’ talk, wonders when we all can move on

Kenya Barris, the creator of ABC’s smash hit “Black-ish,” has had enough of talking about diversity in TV and movies.

He let his frustration show during an appearance with the cast at the Television Critics Association’s summer press tour on Friday when a reporter asked him what percentage of the show’s viewership was black, Variety reported.

“It doesn’t matter who’s watching our show,” Barris replied. “The fact is that they’re watching it. And I feel like every question at every panel … I get so tired of talking about diversity. These are amazing, talented actors and amazing writers who give their all and they don’t have to do this. It’s crowding the conversation.”

Tracee Ellis Ross, who stars as Rainbow Johnson on the show, answered the question with a question of her own.

“Is that a question that you’ve asked other shows that are not predominately of a certain color?” she asked.

“Not necessarily,” the reporter replied, according to Variety.

“Those questions continue the conversation in a direction that does not help the conversation,” Ross said.

“We always have to box everything in,” Barris complained. “Isn’t it just a good family show? It’s specifically about a black family. We’re not denying that. But don’t you see yourself in it? Don’t you see your family in it? … Why is that important, who watched the show? Why does it matter? Why do we keep having to have these conversations?”

Some on social media gave Barris and the cast some answers as to why diversity is an issue around their show.

DONATE TO BIZPAC REVIEW

Please help us! If you are fed up with letting radical big tech execs, phony fact-checkers, tyrannical liberals and a lying mainstream media have unprecedented power over your news please consider making a donation to BPR to help us fight them. Now is the time. Truth has never been more critical!

Success! Thank you for donating. Please share BPR content to help combat the lies.
Carmine Sabia

Comment

We have no tolerance for comments containing violence, racism, profanity, vulgarity, doxing, or discourteous behavior. If a comment is spam, instead of replying to it please click the ∨ icon below and to the right of that comment. Thank you for partnering with us to maintain fruitful conversation.

BPR INSIDER COMMENTS

Scroll down for non-member comments or join our insider conversations by becoming a member. We'd love to have you!

Latest Articles