Watch TV's Black Renaissance: Reggie Yates in Hollywood

TV's Black Renaissance: Reggie Yates in Hollywood is a thrilling and insightful documentary series produced by BBC Select that explores the experiences of black actors, writers, and filmmakers in the entertainment industry. Reggie Yates, an accomplished British presenter and actor in his own right, serves as the host and guide for the audience as he travels to Hollywood to investigate the changing landscape and opportunities for black creatives in the industry.

The series consists of three episodes, each focusing on a particular aspect of the industry, and is interspersed with interviews of prominent figures such as Spike Lee, Lena Waithe, and John Boyega. The first episode, "The Cast," delves into the experiences of black actors in Hollywood and the challenges they face in securing roles that go beyond caricatures and stereotypes. Yates speaks with actors such as Daniel Kaluuya, David Oyelowo, and Aml Ameen, who share their perspectives on navigating the industry and the importance of telling authentic stories.

The second episode, "The Crew," explores the experiences of black creatives behind the scenes, including writers, directors, and producers. Yates interviews individuals such as Justin Simien, the creator of the hit show Dear White People, and Ava DuVernay, director and producer of award-winning films such as Selma and 13th. The episode highlights the need for diverse voices behind the camera to ensure that stories are told accurately and authentically.

The final episode, "The Future," looks at the emerging talent in the industry and the opportunities for the next generation of black creatives. Yates speaks with up-and-coming actors and writers such as Michaela Coel and Malachi Kirby, who share their hopes and goals for the future of black representation in the industry.

Throughout the series, Yates also provides historical context, exploring the roots of black representation in Hollywood, including its most famous trailblazers such as Sidney Poitier and Hattie McDaniel. He examines how black creatives have been historically excluded from the industry and the efforts being made to correct it.

Overall, TV's Black Renaissance: Reggie Yates in Hollywood is a thought-provoking and engaging series that sheds light on the experiences of black creatives in Hollywood. It provides an important perspective on the need for diversity in the entertainment industry and the impact of representation on Hollywood and society at large. With its informative interviews and in-depth exploration, this series is sure to inspire and engage viewers interested in the future of the entertainment industry.