Rhimes vs. Palladino, Round 2 (Feminism vs. Blackness Edition)
Once Shonda Rhimes’ tweet about the lack of diversity in the new ABC Family comedy “Bunheads” reverberated through the blogosphere, we knew it was only a matter of time before the show’s creator, Amy Sherman-Palladino, fired back. Unfortunately, her response is predictably evasive and indicting rather than constructive.
When asked about the series’ overwhelming whiteness, Sherman-Palladino told Media Mayhem host Allison Hope Weiner:
“Look, I’m not going to get into a pissing match with Shonda Rhimes because she has 15,000 shows on the air, and she’s doing just fine for herself. [But] I’ve always felt that women, in a general sense, have never supported other women the way they should…. I think it’s a shame, but to me, it is what it is. I wouldn’t do it. I wouldn’t go after another woman. I, frankly, wouldn’t go after another showrunner.”
Ah, that old chestnut about women sticking together, racial exclusion and bias be damned! We know it well. Rather than addressing Rhimes’ valid critique, Sherman-Palladino chastises her for betraying some sacred women’s code, citing the scarcity of women at the highest levels of TV production and how imprudent it is for them to publicly take each other to task.
While it might’ve been more effective for Rhimes to discuss her concerns with Sherman-Palladino directly, in a more private, controlled forum, it also would’ve been to Sherman-Palladino’s benefit to confront Rhimes’ assertion directly, particularly since her show is brand new and in dire need of more viewers (some of whom could, potentially, be women of color). My guess is that she had little interest in casting for diversity, despite the sense it would’ve made for ratings, for positive cultural messaging, and for the advocacy of increased exposure for women of color in ballet. But she was loathe to admit that and chagrined at even being called out on it. Eventually, she chalked it up to the show’s “small budget” and “demands.”
It’s a typical refrain. Historically, we’ve seen the feminist agenda fail to address the particular issues facing women of color. The problem persists even today. I guess it should be no surprise that Sherman-Palladino chose to confront this issue this way. Expecting a woman who’d write a show this racially homogeneous to have a legitimate reason for the whiteout (a reason that didn’t involve scolding Rhimes for her anti-feminist tack) is pretty unrealistic.
How long are we going to cry diversity? Why are you waiting on the powers that be to hear your cries. Create your own lanes!!
@AfricanMami Yes! Thank you! Time to stop crying and start doing!
Shanda Rhimes is creating her own lane and she has very diverse cast. Sooooooo, what are you two talking about? She called it like she saw it. She has set the bar by creating cast that are diverse and the characters had great depth. You can’t say that about most shows on the air now.
I know. Just my general thoughts about this woe unto us! We have to be included in everything mentality. We don’t!
I agree 110% African Mami! This is why I support shows like Awkward Black Girl. I can see well rounded characters that I can ACTUALLY relate to rather than stereotypes that make me cringe.
Exactly African Mami. Tired of black people begging to be a token. Create ur own and when we get our own support it!!
That is why I am an ardent supporter of shows created by us for us, like the BWNG series currently out! Those brothers are doing their thang! My support plus those of others, might bring them to the forefront, who knows even prime time. Shonda Rhimes is making her voice heard at the wrong time. Now, we have multiple platforms in which we can showcase diversity without having to cry inclusion.
the feminist “movement” was never nor has it ever been concerned wiht black women. period.
Exactly!!! But black women have latched on to that crap sooo hard. Make ur own movement!!
@Isis
there is a Black feminist movement…Its called BWE-Black womens empowerment and its mostly online for now….but since these women are not kissing Black mens asses or talking about saving the community but encourage Black women to get theirs unapologetically, then most Black women shun it. LMAO!
WOW, I did NOT know Shonda has 15,000 shows on TV!
Guess due to that Non-Factor she wants room for her’s.
Let it Be…… Do U Shonda (inclusive)
Thx to the GOP/Tea Party hatred is promoted and ALIVE
Make your shows which are OUTSTANDING and she will do whateva, SAD,