Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Informative docuseries on Black images on TV; language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SEEN & HEARD: THE HISTORY OF BLACK TELEVISION is a two-part docuseries chronicling the development of Black characters and images in television. Featuring interviews with Black creators and actors, including Malcolm Jamal Warner and Norman Lear in some of their last on-screen credits, Seen and Heard talks about how Blackness has been gatekept by white network owners, how Black stories and characters broke through to the mainstream, and what is next for Black Hollywood.
Is It Any Good?
Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television is an informative two-part series that gives a quick overview of the history of Black images in television. The series has interviews with creators and actors who were at the forefront of changing how Black Americans were viewed in the media. What's great about these interviews is that even though everyone is in agreement on a base line about Black portrayals, their opinions show Blackness isn't a monolith. There is discussion and disagreement about what types of portrayals are harmful, which gives viewers much more food for thought.
With that said, if you are already a student of media, Black media especially, you might know much of what is documented in this series. Much of it won't be a surprise to you. This series is best suited for those who are just learning about the history of media and its impact on society. New learners will be able to use this docuseries as a basis for further learning.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about empathy. How did Black characters and stories in television affect how people viewed Black people in society?
What challenges did Black creators and actors face in Hollywood?
How has Hollywood changed towards Black actors and creators? What else does the industry need to learn?
How did Black actors combat harmful stereotypes?
Do all Black actors agree on what constitutes a bad stereotype or storyline?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 9, 2025
- Cast : Issa Rae , Tyler Perry , Oprah Winfrey , Tracee Ellis Ross
- Network : HBO Max
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : Activism , Arts
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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