Black In The 80s is a three part mini-series that explores and celebrates the achievements and advancements African-Americans made in pop culture during the 1980's.
From historical breakthroughs in film and television to the birth of a new genre of music, their milestones changed the landscape of American popular culture.
Questions posed by the series include: How did television represent the black experience in the '80s? How did black actors finally break out of the stereotypical roles they'd been consigned to for decades, and what was mainstream America's reaction?
Why did black music have such a renaissance during the decade? Who proved that rap could be revolutionary?
Why did a genre intrinsic to the black urban experience strike such a chord with the masses, particularly with white kids in the 'burbs?
How did the black community respond to Steven Spielberg directing The Color Purple? Was the world ready for a Spike Lee joint?
By highlighting significant moments in music, movies and TV shows, the series looks at the triumphs and hurdles African Americans had throughout the 80's.
The show interviews people from all genres and walks of life who share their own memories from the time and offer factual information and commentary.
People featured on the show include Bill Cosby, Oprah Winfrey, Robert Guillaume, Robin Givens and Arsenio Hall among others.
(For a preview of each episode, please see mini-site Episodes)