By Sheyla Fairley
Back in the day, shows like A Different World, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Sister, Sister, Living Single and Family Matters were a huge success with Black audiences. Viewers enjoyed watching characters who looked like them be at the forefront instead of just appearing in supporting roles. It also gave the broader audience a better chance at understanding African Americans.
Over the years, many of those shows have cultivated a large following in the Black community, and they are still looked at fondly.
Today, there are more shows with Black leads, life stories, and plots that entertain.
Over the next few weeks, we will be bringing attention to some shows that you may want to unwind with. These newer shows may rise in popularity and end up resonating with audiences like their predecessors did.
A Black Lady Sketch Show (2019- )
“A sketch-comedy series from comedian/actor Robin Thede, featuring a cast of black women and celebrity guests.”[1]
Starring: Robin Thede, Gabrielle Dennis, Ashley Nicole Black, & Skye Townsend
Network: HBO
Where to Stream:
The Upshaws (2021- )
“A working-class Black family in Indiana strives for a better life and a happy home while juggling everyday struggles in this comedy series.”[2]
Starring: Mike Epps, Kim Fields, Wanda Sykes, & Gabrielle Dennis
Where to stream:
*Season 3 is to premiere on August 17, 2023.
The Wonder Years (2021- )
“The story of the Williams family during the late 1960s, all through the point of view of imaginative 12-year-old Dean. With the wisdom of his adult years, Dean’s hopeful and humorous recollections of his past spotlight the ups and downs of growing up in a Black middle-class family in Montgomery, Alabama, and the friendship, laughter and lessons along the way.”[3]
Starring: Elisha “EJ” Williams, Dulé Hill, Saycon Sengbloh, & Laura Kariuki
Network: ABC
Where to stream:
*Season 2 is to premiere on June 14, 2023.
Swagger (2021- )
Inspired by NBA player Kevin Durant’s experiences, the series “explores the world of youth basketball, and the players, their families and coaches who walk the fine line between dreams and ambition, and opportunism and corruption.”[4]
Starring: O’Shea Jackson Jr., Isaiah Hill, Tristan Wilds, & Quvenzhané Wallis
Where to stream:
*Season 2 is to premiere on June 23, 2023.