Cilla Black On The Sixties.

[anotheoldgit]

Saw a recent TV snippet of a Cilla Black programme, all about the sixties.

I was surprised it showed a lengthy section regarding the Black & White Minstrel Show, and no one seems to have gone on Twitter or phoned up the TV station, stating that they were deeply offended, what a refreshing change that makes.

Yes that particular show was essential Saturday Night viewing for most in those days, and no one gave it a moments thought.

[andy-hughes]

AOG - I think the way to look at the Black & White Minstrel Show is in context - it is firmly of its time.

In common with a large number of cultural changes in the intervening time, it would not be seen as appropriate viewing in today's society, but as you quite rightly point out, it was not cause for comment at the time it was shown.

I remember watching it at my Nana's house, as a child, and only being curious about the voice of the man who - as I now know - aped Al Jolson - I thought there was something wrong with him!

[maggiebee]

Agree 10ClarionSt most of it is just a storm in a teacup. Of course, I'll be really offended if you disagree with me!!

[andy-hughes]

Thanks 10ClarionSt - I remember the name now.

I have just googled the show, and found that the 'blackface' make-up was actually red - because black did not film well!

You learn something every day.

[dave50]

Now you have pointed it out AOG, no doubt the professionally offended will be phoning up complaining as we speak even though they never saw it.

[dave50]

Following the death of George Cole I watched an episode of Minder on youtube and they referred to black people as 'spades'. I'm surprised there hasn't been complaints about that.

[anotheoldgit]

andy-hughes

/// I have just googled the show, and found that the 'blackface' make-up was actually red - because black did not film well! ///

Blimey Andy, you have now set the 'Native Americans' off. :0)

[naomi24]

^ Don't tell 'em, Pike!!

[naomi24]

^That was to Dave.

[andy-hughes]

As I pointed out, I see nothing wrong with showing television from the past, even though it jars with what is considered acceptable these days.

If people never see and hear about culture before they were born, how on earth will they ever learn any history which they can relate to their own lives in the present?

Showing something from a bygone age that is no longer accepted is not the same as saying that it's OK - it is what it is - a piece of cultural history.

[naomi24]

It doesn't jar with me.

[andy-hughes]

dave50 - //Following the death of George Cole I watched an episode of Minder on youtube and they referred to black people as 'spades'. I'm surprised there hasn't been complaints about that. //

I think that occasionally, items like this do slip past and are not picked up - except the BBC's regrettable decision to stop showing the 'Germans' episode of Fawlty Towers.

[anotheoldgit]

dave50

Yes it is very offensive to call 'a spade a spade' these days.

Good job I have had one for years, now wouldn't fancy going into B&Q and asking them if they had any spades.

[andy-hughes]

AOG - //andy-hughes

/// I have just googled the show, and found that the 'blackface' make-up was actually red - because black did not film well! ///

Blimey Andy, you have now set the 'Native Americans' off. :0) //

Oh Gawd, I never thought of that!!!!

[Bathsheba]

I remember it as being on Sunday evenings....shall have to Google now >>>>>>

x x

[piggynose]

so what do you pc people call all the suits of playing cards, diamonds, hearts, clubs and ??????

[hc4361]

Nothing wrong with the word 'spade' as you know full well, piggynose.

Not only do I have them in my deck of cards I also dig the garden with one.

[Bathsheba]

Nope, seems I'm wrong,....it says it was on Saturday evenings. Wonder why I can remember my Nan being there? She only came on a Sunday....:/

x x