History of the Future

A look back at the legendary Black sitcoms that shaped the childhoods and inspired the futures of generations of viewers.

Black performers and creators are responsible for some of the most innovative work in the history of dramatic television. By pushing the genre's boundaries, these shows have transformed our conversations, thinking and culture as a whole.

An exploration of how reality, talk and competition series became showcases for authentic Black voices, talent and culture.

Standup and sketch comedy have always been at the center of the Black television experience. Through laughter, these programs offered audiences an escape from harsh realities and altered the comedic landscape in the process.

Black representation in genres like superheroes, science fiction and horror continues to evolve as pioneering voices have emerged and asserted themselves into a future of limitless imagination.