By: Isis Nicole
Martin Lawrence as Sheneneh
Sheneneh, from the classic TV sitcom Martin, is truly a memorable character. Although, Martin played many characters on the show, Sheneneh was the most interesting, because she was played by a man. There hasn’t been another weave technician on television who has kept her nails and hair done and looked “fashionable” at all times. Amazingly, she remained a “lady,” despite her quick temper. It’s impossible not to love her knockoffs, fanny packs, gold jewelry, braids, and sense of humor.
Jamie Foxx as Wanda
In Living Color had an incredibly hilarious cast, but the not-so-good-looking woman with a bad attitude, also known as Wanda, is what made this particular show so special. Wanda was a blond diva, didn’t like any unattractive men, and she was always “red-ta-go.” Jamie did a great job of taking this character to a different level.
Tyler Perry as Madea
Whether you hate or love the plays and movies, Madea is the truth! She is the perfect example of an elder. The way she dresses, walks, and talks makes it easy for almost anyone to identify with her. Her signature one-liners are well-known and just like Sheneneh and Wanda, she has the attitude to match. There aren’t many people who can say they still have a “Big Mama,” but Tyler Perry as Madea, fills that void. Oh, and she has no problem with putting anyone in check.
I am not a prude but I think this is a disturbing trend among black actors. Sure, white actors do it to, but not on the order like black men. It's like Dave Chappelle said, it is sort of a litmus test in Hollywood.
ReplyDeleteI somewhat agree. As an actor in Hollywood, you have to be able to reinvent yourself and play a role (even if it is a man dressing like a woman). There are male actors of all races who have donned a dress--the difference is that black actors wear a dress and imitate stereotypes that are damaging to African Americans. All the characters above (and others as well) do nothing but portray black women in a bad light--and black women are the main ones who support!
ReplyDeleteI am on the fence (Devil's Advocate) - on one hand, I think we can take some things to seriously - these characters are meant to entertain and be somewhat self-depricating. Others races have similar examples, not always presenting them in the "best" light, but it's "just comedy" - not hurting a whole community as some in our community make it out to be (although I see how too many of these images can be damaging). A positive/serious black woman character (perhaps Big Mama in Soul Food) would be played by a female actress. That said, these comedians are following in the tradition of Flip WIlson, and I don't "believe" attempting to place black women in a negative light. Truth is, some do know a Madea.
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