The Monday, February 25th ABC premier of the television adapted classic Raisin in the Sun started off on a very bad note. Or should I say a “silent one”! Millions of viewers watched in utter disbelief and confusion as background music and sound effects overshadowed the first 10-15 minutes of acting in the show. The only human beings who could possibly understand the actors dialogue were those who could read lips due to the fact that the words being said were inaudible.

Phones rang across America as people inquired whether or not their cable company initiated the problem. After much inquiry, it was obvious that it was ABC who had indeed made a huge blunder during one of the most prolific play’s depicting African-American struggle, strength, and sacrifice. How could this have happened? Why did it have to be a black show? What took ABC so long to fix the problem? Something like this never happens during Grey’s Anatomy! Well, as disappointed as many viewers were, ABC did finally fix the problem. They are lucky they did too. One can only imagine the outpour of complaints and outrages this type of mistake would have caused had it gone on for the entire show.

On a lighter note, the acting of Phylicia Rashad, Sanaa Lathan, and Audra McDonald were exceptional. There is no wonder that Rashad and McDonald both won Tony’s for their performances in the Broadway play with Lathan also being nominated. Sean Combs, believe it or not, wasn’t half bad and due to the level of talent surrounding him, it is obvious that he was forced to come with his A game. It was also good to see Bill Nunn. Most of you know him as Grady from School Days!
Although ABC damn near started a riot, all in all, the television-adapted rendition of Raisin in the Sun was a successful modern day showing of black pride and most importantly, black love!! -don-b