Jenifer’s a Star

Last week, Jimmy Kimmel was named as both host and executive producer of the Emmy Awards – assuming there will be an Emmy Awards.  Days later, there was an outcry against him.  Why?  Because 20 years ago, he wore blackface to play basketball star Karl Malone on The Man Show.  Not only are people complaining about the character, but they are calling Kimmel on the carpet for being part of a show that was anti-woman.  It was also noted that another late-night Jimmy – Jimmy Fallon – wore blackface to play Chris Rock on Saturday Night Live.  Fallon immediately apologized.  “I am very sorry for making this unquestionable offensive decision and thank all of you for holding me accountable.”  As for Kimmel, he’s taking the summer off and will employ guest hosts. 

What a roller coaster it was for Black-ish.  Last week, ABC announced that while the sitcom was being renewed, it would return as a midseason replacement in order to make room for a new sitcom – Call Your Mother starring Kyra Sedgwick.  It was a questionable choice in these days of intense racial scrutiny (to say nothing of it happening within 48 hours of Juneteenth).  It didn’t take long for ABC to change their tune.  Black-ish will return in the fall.  The network decided that “it was important to tell these meaningful stories during this moment in time.”

In a move that nobody found controversial, Black-ish star Jenifer Lewis (my Play Mama) will be the recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!  The honor, bestowed upon great entertainers by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce (based on fan petitions) will take place sometime in 2021.  May I recommend July 15th?

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