Call Number:

Ms. Coll. 1656

Repository:

University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts

Extent:

.83 linear feet (2 boxes and 1 oversized folder)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Black-Oriented TV programs collection, 1951-2021, Ms. Coll. 1656, Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, University of Pennsylvania

Date:

1951-2021 (inclusive)

Form:

Memorabilia, Photographs, and press kits

Abstract:

This collection of over 175 photographs, press kits and memorabilia documents the role of Black people in 122 television series, mini-series, talk shows, news programs and made for television movies.

Black representation in television has evolved significantly from often stereotypical portrayals to more diverse and nuanced depictions. In the early days of television, Black actors were often cast in stereotypical roles, often as comic clowns in a tradition tracing back to the genre of Black minstrels popular in the early 20th century through the late 1950s, or as servants, usually maids.

The 1960's began to challenge stereotypes with shows like I Spy, which featured Black actors in dignified and leading roles. The 1970s saw sitcoms like Sanford and Son, Good Times, and The Jeffersons, offered more realistic portrayals of Black families and communities. Roots, a groundbreaking miniseries that depicted the horrors of slavery, also aired during this time.

The 1980s and 1990s further expanded opportunities for Black actors and audiences. The rise of sitcoms like The Cosby Show, A Different World, and Living Single featured predominately Black casts, and showcased Black families and professionals in a positive light. More recent decades have seen an expansion of Black storytelling across genres, from dramas to comedies, reflecting a broader spectrum of the Black experiences.

This collection of over 175 photographs, press kits and memorabilia documents the role of Black people in 122 television series, mini-series, talk shows, news programs and made for television movies. These shows not only provided entertainment but reflected societal changes and broke barriers in representation.

The black and white, professionally taken photographs are arranged alphabetically by title. Most of the 175 plus photographs were released by the studios to promote their television shows and include images of the series cast and/or its star. Some of the photographs include a press release or newspaper clipping attached to the back. Most of the 122 television series, mini-series, talk shows, news programs and made for television movies only include one photograph. Those shows containing more than one include: Baby I'm Back (2); Backstairs at the White House (2); Barefoot in the Park (2); Between Brothers (2); Charlies and Co. (2); A Different World (2); Family Matters (3); The Flip Wilson Show (5); For Your Love (2); Frank's Place (2); The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (3); Good Times (3); Hammerman (2); Hangin' with Mr. Cooper (2); In Living Color (3); Julia (2); Living Single (4); Martin (2); Moesha (2); The New Bill Cosby Show (2); On Our Own (3); The Parent 'Hood (8); The Preston Episodes (2); Roc (2); Sister Sister (2); Smart Guy (2); 227 (2); The Watcher (2); Where I Live (2); You Take the Kids (2). Mini-series and made for television movies with more than one photograph include Roots (3); Roots the Next Generation (10) and Tenafly (2).

Besides photographs, the collection includes press kits for 7 television shows. Some of the press kits are housed in elaborate folders or boxes and may include photographs of the cast, lead actor/actress, and guest stars; press releases; cast biographies; synopses of episodes; transcripts of interviews with executives and casts; prime time schedules; publications and posters.

Also included in the collection are several pieces of memorabilia. These include View-Master reels, trading cards, 3D glasses, an embroidered patch and a plush toy.