Civil Rights group calls on Andy Cohen and Bravo to make commitment to no longer air physical fights involving Black people
NEW YORK, N.Y. – Last night the Bravo Network premiered season seven of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, the first since last season’s reunion special, during which a brawl erupted between cast members Porsha Williams and Kenya Moore. That fight was just the most recent in a long line of physical altercations involving Black people on the network. In response to reports of potentially more violence to come, ColorOfChange.org is calling on Bravo TV and Andy Cohen to make a commitment to no longer air violence involving Black people.
ColorOfChange.org Managing Director of Campaigns, Arisha Hatch released the following statement:
“Violence involving Black cast members has become a reliable ratings boost for Bravo. Prior to last season’s reunion show altercation, major brawls on shows like The New Atlanta and Married to Medicine were aired with much fanfare, hyped up as must-see television events.
“Bravo is not at the mercy of the behavior of the casts of its shows. Reality TV producers routinely utilize staged, hostile environments and specific editing strategies to conjure the story they wish to tell. We demand Bravo and Andy Cohen turn away from these stereotypical narratives, and stop profiting from violence involving Black people.
“Judging by recent reports of yet another massive brawl during taping for the upcoming season of Bravo’s Blood, Sweat, and Heels, it seems there’s no end in sight for Bravo’s reliance on dangerous stereotypes. During that fight, between Black castmates Geneva Thomas and Melyssa Ford, a bottle was reportedly smashed over Ford’s head, sending her to the hospital. Thomas has since been arrested. Under no circumstances should Bravo air this or any other fights involving Black people.
“Stereotypical portrayals of Black people – as angry, belligerent, and violent – are dangerous, shaping negative perceptions in the minds of viewers that, when acted upon, can mean real life harm for Black communities; discriminatory hiring practices, less attention from doctors, and harsher treatment by law enforcement, just to name a few. Bravo and Andy Cohen must move beyond these harmful, one-dimensional portrayals.”
