Reflections on Classic TV Variety Shows: The Carol Burnett Show and The Black and White Minstrel Show

Over the decades, television has seen a myriad of variety shows that have captured the hearts and minds of viewers. Two shows stand out particularly: The Carol Burnett Show and The Black and White Minstrel Show. Each has its unique place in history, offering a window into the past.

The Carol Burnett Show: Comedy, Music, and Magic

Undoubtedly, one of the most beloved variety shows of the 1960s and 1970s was The Carol Burnett Show. This show was not just about comedy, it was packed with music and guest stars, making it a robust and well-rounded entertainment experience. Notably, the on-screen chemistry between Harvey Korman and Tim Conway was unparalleled. These two performers provided some of the most memorable and enduring sketches in the show's history.

The Black and White Minstrel Show: A Controversial Sensation

Among my memories of the 1960s is the The Black and White Minstrel Show. Although it is now viewed with disdain and criticized as a cultural obscenity, at the time, it was perceived as light and family-friendly entertainment. Indeed, it was a variety show that offered music, singing, and dancing, but it also existed in a different era with different cultural norms and perspectives.

The Program's Origins and Features

The show was created by BBC producer George Inns, working with George Mitchell. It ran from 1958 to 1978, during which it was a weekly British light entertainment variety show. The male members of the cast wore black makeup with eyes and mouths ringed in white, following the "blackface" minstrel tradition—a practice that has been widely condemned in modern times. The women, known as the Toppers, did not have to black up but wore luxurious costumes featuring Crimplene.

Awards and Recognition

The Black and White Minstrel Show was a significant presence in the entertainment industry, particularly in Europe. In 1961, it was the first-ever recipient of the Golden Rose of Montreux, an annual international contest for light entertainment organized by the Swiss Broadcasting Authority under the patronage of the European Broadcasting Union. The show outperformed entries from a US show featuring Fred Astaire and Sammy Davis Jr., and an entry from the Soviet Union featuring the Kirov Ballet.

The Show's Decline and Legacy

Despite its initial popularity, the show faced growing criticism by the mid-1970s. This backlash was partly influenced by the civil rights movement and changing societal views. By 1978, the show's viewer numbers had significantly declined, and it ceased airing. This period marked the decline of the variety genre on British television, with The Black and White Minstrel Show being the last major variety show to disappear from the screens.

Personal Reflections: A Nostalgic Look Back

Looking back, I have many fond memories of The Black and White Minstrel Show and how it was enjoyed by all members of my family. As a child, I was always allowed to watch it, unlike some other TV programs. My parents saw it as good, clean, wholesome, and innocent family entertainment. Even as a child and teenager, I found the show entertaining and well-produced, often holding it in high regard compared to other variety shows of the era.

Conclusion: The Evolution of Cultural Perspectives

The evolution of cultural perspectives over time has led to the changed view of these shows. The Black and White Minstrel Show's legacy is a poignant reminder of the changing dynamics of entertainment and cultural acceptance. As we look back, it is crucial to understand the context and educate ourselves on the history of television to foster a more inclusive and respectful understanding of the past.