I was lucky enough to see D. L.'s new show air and I thought he was nervous but more or less on point. I think his appearance on Larry King prior gave him a great opportunity to showcase his politic intellect and show viewers that he has the potential to more than just a great comedian. Recently I think CNN has tried hard to become more in touch with black culture in reaction to Obama's nomination, starting with their series Black in America and now with D. L.. In no way has been a negative change in programming, in fact I think it's great, but their trying so hard it shows. I think Hughleys show should be less comedy and more intellectual. There are plenty of entertaining blacks on TV. Blacks could use a guy like Hughley on TV to show America and the rest of the world that blacks can do more than just entertain on TV, and D.L. has the potential. Congrats and more power to you D.L.! good luck with ur new gig.

You have got to be kidding. I thought this would be something to rival Glen Beck, something with a little snappy Democratic intelligence. It was simply abominable, an embarrassment to CNN. And a comedy on a news network? The so called "humor" was in such poor taste I couldn't even take 5 minutes! It's the kind of trash I would expect from Fox News!! Truly AWFUL!

Start with the opposite reactions of these first two comments and then read on through all the other passionate messages, and then tell me Hughley and CNN have not produced a show that for all the flaws of the pilot has sparked an intense discussion about race and television. I'm sorry, but I think that is a good thing. Z

I'm surprised that the folks who run CNN are comfortable seeing its venerable logo and real reporters juxtaposed with comics labeled "Baddest dude on Wall Street" and joking "Election Facts" using the same graphic look as the real thing. I don't have a problem with CNN running a comedy news show, but I think to protect its deservedly-respected brand, the network needs to have less blurring of the line between made-up comic material, "reporters," and graphics, and its genuine product.

I am shocked and appalled that Zurawik is not shocked and appalled. Hughley's show is unspeakably offensive in its reinforcement and downright celebration of the worst racial stereotypes. We've been 'Bamboozled' for sure, but this time without Spike Lee's ironic take.

Hi Claire, Read on and you will see it is a very mixed bag with some loving and some hating it. And I think the strength of some emotions suggests we are showing more than just our reaction to an "entertainment" show in these comments to a show like this. As uneven as the first episode was, I think it struck a few nerves in terms of race, and that is why you have this kind of reaction -- and radio show hosts (a truly reckless lot by and large) stirring the debate. I urge a second look. I think it has real promise. Thanks. Z

Disappointed in D. L. Hughley. This makes it seem as if he was a sale out. This was just down right ugly. I hope african americans will not suppport this show.

So you think this is a new hit?. I don't think of this type of comedy when I decide to watch CNN. D.L. must be the new sell out to welcome to your line up. I am so dissapointed in CNN, but more importantly, I am dissapointed that D.L. agreed to be used in this capacity. How about comedy central........?.

This show is disgusting and insulting.

As an African-American viewer of CNN I did not find DL's show amusing it was no saturay night live and when I'm watching a news show I want to see news, if I want comedy I'll watch comedy central. Not blaming DL we all need to work and comedy is his job, but how far is to far. Not impressed at all, I still love DL and will continue to support his comedy just not on CNN.

According to what I've heard on the radio stations that I listen to on a daily basis.....nobody liked the show!

Give it a chance. It is only the first one. There is a lot of promise here. Z

This show does not belong on a NEWS channel. If Don Imus said some of the same things, we would be demanding his head on a silver platter. The content, with its vile stereotypes and profanity, is evidence that CNN has lowered the bar and is no longer worthy to call itself "the most trusted name in news". We turn to CNN for news not comedy. If they are trying to compete with SNL, this is a complete failure.

I loved it! So did many others I have talked with.

The show is de-grading & stupid. It is a set up to make us(blacks) all look stupid in the eyes of white amerikkka. They still believe that a black man will do ANYTHING for money, since when did CNN become a comedy channel? Stick to the news

The show was wack. DL should take a tip from Dave Chappelle.....just because you can doesn't mean that you should. It was buffoonery at least and not very funny. Too bad.

You've got to be kidding ... "no one liked the show". What "no one" are you talking about? Someone who didn't see it? It was great, hilarious, wonderful comedic relief. As the columnist noted, you could detect DL's nervousness, but over the course of the show, he worked it out. I look forward to seeing more.

I look forward as well. Thanks. Z

I am a 37 year old black woman and I find the show highly offensive.,

D. L. is brilliant! Unfortunately, a couple of Black radio talkshows are stirring up animosity towards him, saying that he may cause people to vote against Obama. It's almost as if Obama is off limits for comedic attacks.

It was truly awful and just reinforced tons of tired stereotypes.

What the hell were you watching?? It was a piece of crap filled with offensive stereotypes.

I think that show was terrible. That's why white people always say, If they say somthing about us we would have a fit, yet we go and do the same thing. This is the worst time that he would have done this!!!! Obama is a class act, and possibly our next president ,and DL hugley is a desgrace for our race!! I like CNN for news ,if I want to look at a comedy show I will go to Comedy Central, or SNL or Mad TV NOT CNN!!!!!!!!!!

I'm still trying to figure out if the Klu Klux Klan wrote the show for DL. What a disgrace for the African-American community. The show needs to be cancelled immediately...

I too was disappointed. DL had a venue to make a difference in the perception and he added to the negativity. This reminds me of Bill Cosby. Yes, as blacks we know what we know and there is no need to give more ammunition when the fort is already full. I think as a comedian DL is good and should stick to comedy arenas where his talents can be appreciated. He always talks about his GED as if it is a badge of honor. He was blessed to be talented and his lack of education wasn't an issue in that field. I wish he would stop boasting about it and using it as an excuse when he feels the need. I think he just further tainted the thoughts that continuity of racism has kept perpertuated all of these years. What a waste of talent and opportunity.

I'm an African American and THIS SHOW IS AWUFL AND OFFENSIVE! IT SHOULD BE TAKEN OFF THE AIR IMMEDIATIELY. I.M SUPRISED THAT THIS IS ON CNN.

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Shut it down now!!!!

I am surprised at the negative reactions. I just happened on the show and found it entertaining and engaging. Of course its not a news show as such. But the social commentary mixed with humor was well done. The segment on Black Presidents in Film was I thought very cleverly done. To each his own I guess.

I'm putting my money on David Allen Grier and the Chocolate News......at least he's funny.

I am so offended that this show is on television. CNN has insulted me by offering this as comedy. CNN viewers are smarter than this ridiculously unfunny show. Within 5 minutes from the start of the show there were over 10 race jokes. White, black, green purple or blue, all viewers should be insulted at CNN's apparent belief that its viewers are the lowest common denominator.

He was also the weakest link in the Kings of Comedy.

I really think D.L.Hugely show is offensive to people in general. He is not funny plus he cannot read. I really am a CNN fan because their station is 99 percent factual and realiable for good decent commentary. I am a black, adult female and detest the new D>L> Hugley show. Is this show meant to be real or are we being PRANKED?

Way to go CNN for taking a chance on something that's far from the normal dull, dry, boring good old boy shows. D.L.'s show has quite a bit of diversity and for those that hate it, you just do not get it and never will. This show is an excellent blend of comedy shots at what's going on in our world today. We need some laughter 'cause if we keep watching the Wall Street woes we all will be crying, loosen up.

All you black folks that hated the show, have got to get the stick out of your behind. Just because CNN is a news organization doesn't mean they can't implement something different and funny. You don't have to watch it so change the channel, simple as that. But to try and take the bread out of somebody's mouth because him doing a comedic/news show on CNN and not Comedy central, offends your intellect, i say take a look at your stuck up self in the mirror first. Nothing pleases you. We all know D. L. is a comedian and the type of comedy he does, so what surprises you here? He's doing it on CNN? Get a life you fake. Go D. L. and your Freddie Mac interview was hillarious. I'm Black, intellectual and i'm self-confident enought to know that the world would not perceive me as a buffoon based on a TV show in the 21th century without being ignorant first. Give the guy a break and let him shine at what he does best, making us laugh while touching delicate subjects with tact.

Hi Kay, thanks for bringing your perspective and passion to the conversation. Z

HATED IT. It was fraught with racial and political stereotypes. I'm not surprised at DL, however, I am surprised that CNN put this on tv and called it a decent program. We've had enough of the "pimps and hos" references. Enough is enough. We don't need this show and any other like it.

I'm sorry, be D.L.'s show was extremely bad. The jokes were not funny and he was clearly out of his comfort zone. I hope they quickly pull the plug, so that D.L. will not damage his career as a comedian. I think he is good as a guest, but does not have what it takes to be the host.

D.L. Hugely sold his soul to the devil, or should I say "the man". There is a time and purpose for everything. This is not the time for Hugely or anyone else to poke fun at such sensitive subjects. Hugely was not funny or entertaining and neither was the Freddie Mach pimp. Disgusting!

D.L. Hugley's new show was a great disappointment . What a waste of air-time. He can do much better. Will never watch it again. D.L. must stand for don't laugh.

I am a white, educated professional who has watched CNN since its inception. I HATED this show. It was completely filled with mindless dribble. Who on earth would find this idiotic display funny unless you have racism flowing in your blood? I find it disturbing that anyone would find this show remotely entertaining. I agree that it is not even worthy of comedy central. Maybe a KKK network...

The people who find this garb - err show the least bit amusing are the same people who loved seeing African Americans in the Aunt Jemima and "Step and Fetch It" roles when the entertainment industry was at its most racist. Dave Z, you're either naive, clueless or worse... Black people, let us stand, in unison, against this garbage!!!

"What silly negroes. So amusing..." - White people all over the country

PULL THE PLUG...The show is unacceptable and insulting to everyone, especially African-Americans.

D.L. has just ruined his career in the black community. That show was completely gastly. I am so disappointed in him and CNN for allowing this type of degrading of African Americans. Contrary to one of the bloggers comments, the radio stations didn't stir up anything.
My wife and I watched it and we were totally hurt to our core. Shame on DL and CNN.

I too agree it is not a hit! Cnn is stroking its own egos, and I wrote them and said so.I really like D.L, However, this show was very degrading, It felt like a kick in the face, with the early film of Sammy Davis pork chop" clips, I actually covered my face in my own home" My family is very diverse, and it was difficult to watch this show without someone being humiliated,the non black members,were targeted for not being black, and the pimp and language was totally out of line. On another note I did enjoy the interviews with the public(voters), the Cnn staff and the twist on the news, but for gods sake, Even though I am black, and a Obama voter,remember all the people not just the black culture, if you expect the show to hang around after the elections are over!

I could only watch this show for approximatily 5 min intervals hoping it would get better. It did not. D.L. If you need money that bad we'll start a collection for you but please stop doing this. I listen to you on Tom Joyner and thought thought you would have a good comedy-political view. What a disappointment. I won't be tunining in to see the outcome or the rating just know you will not get mine.
God Bless.

I could only watch this show for approximatily 5 min intervals hoping it would get better. It did not. D.L. If you need monry that bad we'll start a collection for you but please stop doing this. I listen to you on Tom Joyner and thought thought you would have a good comedy-political view. What a disappointment. I won't be tunining in to see the outcome or the rating just know you will not get mine.
God Bless.

I watched about 20 minutes of this and found it completely, incredibly, offensive. First of all, I respected CNN as a news provider. Respectable commentary, but comedy? Shameful! And Z and anyone else who finds this type of comedy funny, has a sad sense of humor. What's funny about glamorizing or magnifying a pimp profile? D.L's humor is no excuse either. He should feel pretty darn low on today when he sees what 90% of the people thought about how he is making his living off of degrading and mocking the very people who have helped to support his way of life for so many years. CNN really loses out for this one and I'll stick to MSNBC now.

I can only imagine that the negative comments are coming from people who were not D.L.'s fans to begin with, and therfore do not understand his style. It was D.L. being D.L. - would you want anything different from say Red Foxx? I am happy for him to be on CNN. Give him a chance! Love ya D.L.

White folks love this kind of buffoonery. An African -American is not allowed to offer an opinion on CNN if he's not a comedian. Klansmen like Lou Dobbs and Glen Beck can do so but not an African American. What is CNN afraid of?

CNN is one of my favorite news networks and DL Hughley has always been one of my favorite comedians. With that being said, I am UTTERLY disappointed in the show that was aired by CNN Saturday night. While I understand what CNN and Hughley attempted to do, which is to make fun of the many social stereotypes that are in the air (especially in these political days), what it actually did was to reinforce those stereotypes. This is why you will see a clear difference in the demographics of those posters who enjoyed the show versus those who were appalled by it. Count me in the latter group.

The only thing I can possibly imagine is that D.L. has teamed up with Ashton to have CNN's management Punk'd. I would love to be in on the meetings going on at CNN to address this mess.

Hey Z. wanna bet there's not a second episode.

The show literally put me to sleep, and i wasn't even ready to go to bed yet. ;__;

D.L. Hughley is better than his CNN show. He is really funny and yet this show made his seem less funny, less alive, less searing in his commentary. If CNN gathered a bunch of writers... keep them in the background and give DL some space and let him do what he does best. Don't be afraid of him. I know this is a corporate enviornment and that some stuff may scare the suits.... but DL can be really good and most everyone will like him.

I realize the author of this article is in favor of providing information in a way that is easy to understand. Hughley's show relied on stereotypes to do that. Stereotypes are indeed a simple way of understanding others, but they are not necessarily accurate, and not everyone finds them funny. CNN is just not where America goes for their lowbrow entertainment.

This format isn't the best way for CNN to provide either information or entertainment. I expected more intelligent humor from CNN, if that's the route they want to go. As a Jon Stewart viewer, I don't think that was an unreasonable expectation to have, given the success of his show. I assume CNN wants a bit of that, and that's the reason for this show.

Hughley's show may have a place somewhere, but I hope it isn't CNN. As a longtime CNN viewer, I wrote to CNN and then just turned off the TV.

Hi JL: Thanks for your analysis and description of your reaction to the show. Reading your comment, I think this show might in some way be colliding with the expectations some serious viewers have of CNN as one of our most reliable sources of verified factual information and analysis that mainly plays it "down thew middle," as its news president Jon Klein says. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Z

I found the show extremely mysoginistic....."pimps and hos" is no way to describe our current economic situation...."hos" is a degrading term for women and denegrating Miss alaska's accomplishments by repeatedly saying "put on a thong and i'll vote for you" ....well enough said. I certainly hope that Mysogony is not coming into fashion. I for one have no intention of continuing to watch CNN if they endorse woman bashing.

Perhaps mysogny is the NEW humor ...what a great world we live in when CNN promotes "pimps and hos" and denegrating Miss Alaska's accomplishments to a "thong" and a smile repeatedly. Just put on a thong and i'll vote for you ...who needs public speaking.......I will never watch CNN again if this show continues. Its not "hip" its mysognyistic

DL's show was simply terrible. Typical stereotypical humor that thanks to DL the whole world will see. I wish CNN would have let Michael Eric Dyson have a show.

Black people, shut ... up!! Black Comedians have been making these types of jokes for years. Going all the way back to Richard Pryor. DL didn't do anything out of the ordinary. If Obama wasn't running for president there wouldn't be any discussion. Tired of black people acting like we can't express ourselfs or make jokes about obama. That why its called COMEDY. I loved the show and I support DL 100%. And yes I am a BLACK MAN and proud of it.

DL Hughley should hang his head in embarassment over this disgrace of a show. It is truly offensive and disgraceful to the intelligence of any forward thinking individuals. Hughley reinforces every negative racial stereotype and basks in his own humiliating betrayals of black Americans. That CNN would allow Hughley a forum in which to delivery this Step N. Fetch It routine is despicable. I have lost all respect for Hughley and CNN. On the eve of the election of America's first black President, this show is all the more despicable.

The DL Hughley CNN show was offensive. Shame on you CNN & DL Hughley.

DL has never been funny.

I expected more from DL. He is a great comic. I found the show despicable. I was surprised to see this trash on CNN. We as a people should have more respect for ourselves.

I am soooooooooo proud of my African-American brothers and sisters and my Cuacasion-American cousins who are voicing their discontent with the show. Are we coming of age? To think that we are growing in such a way that we are finally standing up to those that would do our image harm. To all of the sell-outs who believe that we should condone such behavior because one negro buffoon benefits at the expense of the perception of the rest of us - shut up you sell-out. You buffoons have traded honor and integrity for a dollar. You are the true slaves, because you justify self-hatred as long as you get the paper with your massas' pictures on the front. Get off the plantation; I'm proud of my people for nation building. D.L. we won't support you because we support us. We won't beg for you to be on our team, but I'll tell you this "either you are with us or you're against us." Don't make your choice after consulting your massas- brother.

I WAS a loyal view of CNN until I saw that disgusting DL Hughly show.I was shocked at the disgusting and distasteful jokes about Barack Obama in DL's opening monologue. I was so disgusted that I turned from his show and watched something else. I was further disgusted later when I flipped back to the show hoping it had cleaned up its act but sadly, all I found was a sick skit about the housing foreclosures starring a disgusting “Pimp” named Freddie Mac. I am disappointed that the CNN network would allow such trash on their network. What I saw of the show further perpetrated the negative stereotypes of black people. WHY DOESN’T CNN ALLOW A TALENTED BLACK TV TALK SHOW HOST TO HAVE A SHOW INSTEAD OF THE BABOONERY OF THE DL HUGHLY SHOW? Why has CNN moved all the black anchors to the weekend? Is this a veiled attempt of CNN to show the public what it really thinks about the black viewers?

I think DL is very talented and he has the capacity to make his show a great one, I am excited for him. This is a tremendous opportunity, but he and CNN are blowing it! DL’s humor could be the perfect vehicle to showcase the failings in our political system, the lies, deception and the bankrupt philosophies of conservative ideology, corrupt politicians, talk radio Rush/Hannity/Others) conservative news/entertainment (Fox) and inept capacity of the media to positively portray black America. Racism is not going away once the election is over, we are going to need more humor to defuse it, deal with it and conquer it. We need DL’s humor to lesson the fears of those who perceive the lost of power and privilege. DL has the intellectual capacity to expose these failings and fears for what they are without causing a backlash and a furor of hatred. It’s time for a change.

DL has got to loose the profanity, or at least tone it down. We don’t need a black man on a major news show using such language, when he has the intellectual capacity to do otherwise? It’s almost like CNN is hell bent on making the same mistakes as BET. This show, as it is, at this moment in our nation’s history was down right offensive. CNN is a respected News Channel that is seen internationally and I strenuously object to the promotion of degrading stereotypes of black Americans around the globe. We don’t need to blast the airways with a black man spewing profanities and vulgar misreprentations of black culture, where they can be wrongly interpreted in other cultures.

Did you hear Barrack Obama’s speech from Ohio today October 27, 2008!!! I have been working my butt off canvassing door-to-door 3-5 days a week for months to help Obama get elected. To see D.L. Hughley denigrate him on national TV was extremely offensive. Your timing is suspect!

Yesterday, I walked into a McDonalds and there were four young men working up front wearing their pants down below their behinds. I asked them if they were going to pull their pants up and wear them correctly once Barrack Obama was elected president. I see D.L. Hughley's humor as one more young black man wearing his pants below his behind emulating the prison culture where this trend got its beginnings. Barrack Obama is a new national role model who is about to take the stage offering hope, inspiration and a new direction for all of America, but specifically for young black men. DL, it’s time for you to pull your pants up too. It’s time for a change!

This moment in our nation's history is larger than D.L. Hughley, it’s larger than CNN. CNN and DL need to back up and regroup. DL needs to have some guts and tell the people at CNN that this is the 21st Century and it's time for a new approach. There is so much that DL could do wonderfully within this context. DL, don’t waste this precipitous moment with antiquated ideas and sketches, be bold, be new, be innovative, inventive and show us what you’re really made of!

Barrack Obama cannot do this job alone; he needs all of us to help. Voting for him and getting him elected is just the beginning; we have to work with him every day of his term in office. We, the people of America (comedians too) must help him and we must support him. We cannot allow CNN and DL Hughley to start out as you have by tearing down everything Barrack Obama is destined to change!!

I am a regular viewer of CNN. I watch the news channel for precise, timely and factual news, however DL Hughley show on CNN was a refreshing change from all humdrum, boring news personnell on CNN. I was entertained as well as informed by Mr. Hughley, and those that were offended, please change the channel. DL Hughley was informative, intelligent, and funny. I hope that CNN gives this show a chance to mature into something spectacular as only DL Hughley in his wit and sophistication can make it. With time I can see the ratings go up.

I tried for an excruciating five minutes to watch D.L. Hugley's new show on CNN. It was the most awful viewing experience I had had in a very long time. Why in the world would ANYONE in their right mind ever see that show as entertaining. CNN and D.L. Hugley has lost ALL credibility in my view. What an awful, awful, awful shameful show.

We were/are all, and I mean ALL holding our breath until at least after Tuesday. I have not seen the show but have heard about it all day; this moment is too important for division. I think CNN, DL Hughley and maybe all of us should go back to holding our breath and hope we (again all of us) don't have any serious missteps or miscues that can be taken advantage of --by ourselves (African Americans) or others and again I mean ALL of us. I do think this country needs to have a candid discussion about race and we all know it's an underlying, perhaps subversive factor right now; but this moment--where we might see the American Dream truly realized for many, many people the world over--is too close, too important, let's hold our breath together, until after Tuesday. CNN is out of it's element just as much as DL reportedly was. Step back take a moment, and realize this time it's bigger than individual missteps or miscues; I didn't denigrate CNN or DL Hughley, there'll be time for that later, I will watch the show and formulate an opinion and most likely share it, but now, right now, is not the time.

I'm so glad to see I wasnt the only one watching this show with a dropped jaw. I still think I am dreaming. I never believed CNN would have made such a distateful decision. I have voiced my opinions via email to cnn. I hope everyone else does too. Just imagine if MLK made the march on Washington while someone was making satirical comedies about it especially another black man.

I continue to be irritated by Fox News, which is why I don’t watch it. We know clear racism when we see it, and it should not be legitimized by our viewership. However, I’ve always given CNN a pass. I’ve overlooked the fact that nearly every financial analyst on the network is a White male, since that tends to be the norm in almost every academic department in America. I could almost overlook the atrocious spectacle called “Black in America”, which presented African Americans to the world as pathetic lab rats to be studied and pitied. When it came to CNN, I presumed that they are simply victims of the same institutionalized racism which plagues nearly every other corporation, university and media outlet in our country. I don’t get mad at every racist I see, since I truly, and perhaps naively, believe that most Americans strive to be good people.

But the new CNN show, “DL Hughley Breaks the News” was something I simply cannot forgive.

In Hughley’s new show, he attempts to add a comedic spin to the presidential election with “commentary” by characters such as “Freddie Mac”, a pimp who apparently caused the financial crisis. In the interview with Freddie Mac, the pimp makes typical pimp-like comments such as “bitch betta have my money”, and “pimps up, hoes down” in reference to the 2008 Presidential election. There are also segments which explain that President Obama’s healthcare plan would include “gold grills for everyone”, along with other equally tasteless jokes that have no place on an allegedly “mainstream” news network just a few days before one of the most significant elections in American history. Nearly every joke on Hughley’s show came back to some generalized stereotype, reminding us that African Americans are seen as relatively trifling “social critters” and not much of anything else. My good friend Roland Martin at CNN has never received the same respect as political caricatures like Nancy Grace and Glenn Beck. So, the most degrading thing CNN can do is to finally give an African American a show after he agrees to turn the stellar Obama presidential campaign into a minstrel show. I am not sure if Flavor Flav or Juan Williams (the educated version of Flavor Flav) could have done a better job.

I have to say that DL Hughley lost my respect 2 years ago during the Don Imus debacle. After working hard on the phone with Rev. Jackson and Rev. Sharpton to construct a plan to challenge Imus’ corporate sponsors, I was saddened to watch DL use this situation as an opportunity to say things that no self-respecting Black public figure would say. On the Jay Leno show, I dropped my face to the floor when I heard Hughley say, “Yes, those women really WERE a pack of nappy headed hoes!” I could not understand why Hughley could not simply make the appearance as a comedian citing the quality of his work, rather than a Black man agreeing to engage in the degradation of Black women for the enjoyment of a predominantly white audience.

At that point, I decided that when DL Hughley is on a show, I will not watch him. I can understand the grit and grind of getting ahead, but getting ahead at all costs makes you a professional garden tool. Perhaps the show’s resident pimp, Freddie Mac could use DL as one of his employees. The idea that this seasoned comedian would leverage his Blackness in such a degrading way simply makes me wonder why he never developed greater range as a performer. His laughs always go back to the same old unintelligent place, like the little kid on the school bus who memorizes 800 “ya mama” jokes and recites them one by one to keep the other kids laughing. Just when Obama taught us all to step outside the box, CNN and DL Hughley have reminded us to stay inside the socio-political ghetto. The audience members are not laughing WITH you DL, they are laugh AT YOU.

I make these comments as a Black man, which I’ve been for quite a while now. I am a loyal fan of Katt Williams, Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Richard Pryor, Wanda Sykes, Eddie Murphy and other cutting edge and incredibly talented comedians. I don’t wear my “Black Panther Hat” everywhere I go, and I have as many guilty pleasures as anyone when it comes to laughing about things that might be considered offensive. I also say this as a moderate fan of Def Comedy Jam, most forms of hip hop and nearly everything else that reflects the beauty and diversity of being Black in our great nation. But the truth of the matter is that there must be a point where the line is drawn, like realizing that you don’t put a porn shop inside a church or bring a gun to a baby shower. It is amazing that CNN would sign off on this show right before such an historic and politically sacred event, sending a clear message to African Americans that the only way to get their attention is to “be really black and make us laugh”. This once again underscores the necessity for more black-owned media outlets. Perhaps if there were a greater diversity of Black-owned media in America, we would not have to sell each other out for our moment in the sun. Until that time, I’ll be getting most of my news from the Internet.

Congratulations DL, it appears that your show will be a smash hit. You’ve become America’s favorite nappy headed hoe. I really hope it was worth it.

I was looking forward to seeing this but when I did I was horrified. Just horrified. I thought Hughley would bring some real intelligence to it, but no, nothing but stereotyping and bad-ass, bitches & pimps "humor". On top of this we had the horrifying story of Jennifer Hudson's family tragedy juxtaposed to this awful show. Just a laugh a minute, folks. CNN should stick with what they do best and stop trying to be Comedy Central; I really wonder whose bright idea was this to air this a week before this election.

I did not see the show, but I heard some of the morning radio commentators comment. But after reading Z's review of the show and the mostly negative feedback for viewers, maybe I should take my cue from the viewers and not bother. But, I do think we still live in a democracy, and majority rules. So if more viewers continue to state their displeasure with the show, CNN will bow to the pressure and pull the plug. Cheer up, it's obviously a show that has an expiration date of Nov. 8, 2008.

The political satire idea behind this show was good, but Hughley executed it poorly. He didn't prepare well and looked really ignorant with his comments. The things he said really made me shake my head and think, that wasn't funny or inciteful; that was nothing. Whenever another scene started I could see where he was trying to go and was on his way to making a strong point, but he just messed it up everytime. Nice try DL, but get back to the drawing board, practice a little more, and hit us with the intelligent, relevant humor we know you're capable of. Or surprise us, do something new. Anything better than what I saw Saturday night.

Can you please help me understand why or how CNN would partner with DL Hughley to put on such an offensive, racially divisive and untactful performance, which was the poorest attempt at humor that I have ever witnessed. I have to wonder how many other educated, African American viewers, or American viewers at large, were as offended as I. I can bet you that there were many. It demonstrated poor writing, poor performance, poor comedy, poor judgment, and the list goes on. CNN must now stand for “Comedy News Network”. This type of show does little for CNN being a credible news organization. I have a sense of humor but not at the expense of my dignity.

DL,

WTF was that? You have managed to take the black race back AT LEAST (bare minimum) 200 years with the first broadcast of your show! Please do the black community a favor and shut the hell up!!!!!!!

DL get a clue. Today is a new African-AMERICAN with a new consciousness. I understand your excitement about Senator Obama but just because you are a famous black man does not mean you have something worthwhile to say and God forbid people of other races or in other countries think you speak for the black community! Your show was embarrassing to say the least. You are so far removed from the "community" and HINT, HINT: it is not about pimping, blinging, pork chops, and the other stereotypical nonsense that filled your show. It was just demeaning....and you are black.....WTF? I can understand the overall concept of your show but please be CONSCIOUS of your actions not only for the REAL African-American community but for the American people as well.

I teach in the lower income neighborhoods of Atlanta and can't recall the last time I've seen/heard from a FAMOUS BLACK entertainer/musician/comedian in support of our schools. Here in Georgia we are suffering from a 50% drop out rate amongst our African-American male students. Several students that go on to graduate are not prepared for college or the workforce and there aren't enough vouchers in the U.S. that can fix this problem! Now find the joke in that DL while you send your children to private schools to be educated with the "privileged" and put up "Freddy Mac" on your show to remind the mothers of our sons of the BS that we fight against on a daily basis just to provide our children with a glimpse of success, regardless of their surroundings. Understand Senator Obama is an excellent role model for our children who is not an athlete, entertainer, or musician of questionable character. Now we can tell OUR sons that they can be anything in the world and offer up proof of this. And here you go putting gold teeth on him and associating his presidency with pork chops and Armageddon. NEWSFLASH: THE JOKE WAS NOT FUNNY WHEN DIANE FEDELE TOLD IT AND YOUR BEING BLACK DOES NOT MAKE THE BEHAVIOR ANY LESS OFFENSIVE, DEMEANING, AND/OR BIASED! Additionally, I can't believe CNN put their stamp on this nonsense because if the same jokes had been told on FOX or any other white commentator's show regardless of the network, there would be a national outcry to cancel the show, fire the host, and sue the network.

I can not even tell you in words how disappointed, hurt, and angry I am with your show! I will finish with this. Stop trying to speak for struggling black people because you have not known what it is like to be black, broke, struggling, and praying for hope within the last decade and a half. Just in case you were wondering, us real broke black people do not let our finances determine our circumstances or levels of decency....I guess you've been too busy being "rich" to have noticed.

I could only stomach a few minutes of the show . Im a black woman. cnn what were you thinking the show is awful not funny at all.

I think the show was entertaining. The same people who did not like it are the ones laughing at his comedy routines.Especially on the Kings of Comedy. Give this brother a break! It was just comedy and that is all. Stop being so serious. Even CNN needs to be funny sometimes. DAMN! Get over it!

Kay, really WE ARE ENTITLED TO OUR OPINIONS! There are no sticks up our rears just because our humor differs from yours and there is nothing funny about pimps.This particular show had no class. We do not need to look in a mirror to identify our selves, and our thought process extends further than our private world."We were not questioning your education or intelligence, however... I am questioning your spelling.

Let me start off by saying, I never thought DL was funny to begin with.

With that being said, his attempt at humor perpetuate the stereotypical racial slander that white america seem to have and enjoy about the black race.

I could only stomach as much as the angry black woman cleaning for the jew before I turned the station.

In factI have a couple of suggestion to make it evn funnier!!! Why not stop there, why not bring Mammy back from "Gone with the Wind", with that just to die outfit and maybe batting the big googlie eyes, while cleaning saying....."Yessa Mr. CNN Yo comm-a-dee is sho nuff funny." Oh boy...now aint that funny!

Since CNN thought his show was funny, why not put a bucket of chicken, some mellon...maybe have DL wear that bright orange jailbird suit...to follow with the theme of of the show.
I would truly love to see that humor on CNN. Ha Ha

And if you found his humor funny, I'd have to question what you have in your closet, so see how many white sheets you have hanging around.

A girlfriend called me Sunday morning to tell me how awful DL's new show was. After watching several clips on CNN I must admit that's its not as bad as I thought it would be. That being said, I will not watch again. I've been luke warm on DL's comedic style for a while. I am not upset or offended. I understand where DL was trying to go - it just didn't work. I think besides RACISM (not race) being a unhealed trauma in this country, people have grown tired of 3rd grade slap stick humor playing on stereotypes. DL had a few good moments, but I don't see the show lasting for a second season.

David, It may be time to take your medication. You're apparently delusional and hallucinating, if you think a show that is hosted by someone who apparently sold his soul to the devil and insults an entire ethnic group for an entire hour and plans to repeat it on a weekly basis is "off to a promising start".
What a disgrace for CNN !

I can't believe that CNN aired this buffoonery during this important election season. I don't care if your White, Black, Yellow, or Pruple you should be appalled with this offensive and dispecable trash. D.L I hope you read this, because your new name is SAMBO.

I was highly disappointed in D.L. Hughley's lack of common sense and/or self esteem in presenting such negative stereotypes to the public.
I was disappointed in CNN's allowing such trash to be put on their network.
But, I must squarely place the blame on D.L. who, as a black entertainer in this country, is well aware of the struggle of black entertainers to move away from such buffonery. He's not starving so he could have refused to present such trash. Where is his self-respect?
He has lost my interest completely.
We are at a serious point in our history in this country and he has attempted to cheapen it by buying into the stereotypes whites have laughed at and perpetuated for years. What a pawn!

D.L hughley should be 6 feet under ground and buried in a garbage dump with magets eating his flesh.D.L. hughley is a uncle tom and a sell out of his on race.Im scared for D.L. hughley and his family.I hope nobody hurts them.He is going to have to be really carefull now.Good luck sell out

Overwhelmingly, the African American community has expressed its disappointment in DL Hughley's need to be a part of aiding negative stereotyping. Our issues in the African American communities are not jokes and it is sad to see such a great opportunity being used to support negative stereotypes.

The talk radio hosts are doing positive things such as supporting injustices, providing scholarships, and helping a people whose history is not valued and included in the history books to understand their rich history and thus work toward standards of greatness.

CNN and DL - please take the comments from your viewers as a serious crisis here as this was very disrespectful to Senator Barack Obama to the African American community. Please revisit this and do what is necessary to support the uplifting of all communities and all ethnicities.

I am so proud of how Atlanta leaders of all ethnicities have supported diversity--- this show is the antithesis of this hard work.

I heard a great deal of hurt in people's voices as they called talk radio shows on Monday.

why dont you ... shut up, its a COMEDY show, do you have the same issues when blacks make jokes about McCain, hell Obama makes jokes about himself all the time NOBODY is off limits when it comes to comedy, I am a young black dude, love hip hop,so I am not some old uppity negro like most of you sound like, do you get this angry about young blacks getting killed in your community? do you get this angry about domestic violence? do you get this angry about homeless people in America? NO!! but you all have a lot to say about some comedy show that is nothing but a bunch of jokes, WAKE UP BLACK PEOPLE and focus on our REAL PROBLEMS not some fn television show that was all jokes!!!!!!!!!

DL. I love you Bruh. However, your CNN show was garbage. Your message on TJMS is always informative with a humorous ting. What happened. Hopefully, your next show will have a little more depth.

Dave, if you believe D.L. Hughley was "impressive" in his debut, you surely must have low expectations of African Americans. I don't know who gets under my skin more: whites who take plessure in blacks who denigrate their own people and make them look foolish at best or "toms" who get upset when other blacks say they are fed up with this baffoonery and decide they will not stand for it any longer.

As for those ignorant people, black or white, who say, "Just change the channel...", you're the same people who would have said in the 1800's, "If you don't like slavery, then don't travel to Dixie Land", "Don't like Jim Crow? Whatever, stop complaining and get to the back of the bus." I guess your philosophy is to cower in the face of ignorance or just to ignore it all together. Now, "You people" kill me...

IT WAS NOT FUNNY. Forget about the stereotypes and the format of the show, IT WAS NOT FUNNY.

This show was so bad that I had to turn the channel. I couldn't wait to see it thinking I was in for a treat. It was amateurish and off point. The humor was tired and dated. I will never watch it again and I hope it gets cancelled.

You know I always thought CNN offered a more even view of things but now after seeing this show. I ( like one of the other commenters suggested ) am susspect of the timing. I am so sick of "us" black folks thinking that anything goes in the name of humor. A lot of this garbage that we hear from our entertainers we would pitch a fit if it was coming from other peoples lips. You know there is nothing wrong with exercising a little judgement! CNN cancel this piece of crap while you still have a modicum of respect. And whoever the author of this article is, I couldn't disagree with you more. This show has no redeeming value. Not only that, Just because DL is a good comedian doesn't make him a good intellect.

When I first seen the show I admit I was a little dissapointed. D.L. is at his funniest when he not restricted to a script. The show is scattered w/too many gimmicks. Remember K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid) all he should be doing is interviews. With his charming, down 2 earth personality and his quick-witted, comedic toung. Will be a nice, hip change for CNN, open doors for a new audience without disrespecting the integrity of the news savvy watchers. Give the show and the host a chance to grow. I also think that you could reach a broader audience by being a host who happens to be black (like Letterman happens to be white) without being a black host. Of course that's just one brotha's opinion

To complain about this show go here: http://www.cnn.com/feedback/forms/form5.html?107

I had to shut it off during the awful, excrutiating, so-called monologue. This is from the same guy who insulted people with the show "Hot Ghetto Mess." Joking about your race is one thing, but insulting them is another. Not to mention, some gullible whites would love to paint all blacks as what is proposed from DL's mouth.

I am a 44 year old African-American, college educated, politically active woman and I liked DL Hughley's show on CNN. I thought it was very funny despite his nervousness. I thought the piece he did at Elon college was hilarious as well as very revealing. I also liked the Freddie Mac piece except for the profanity. I don't care for the profanity and the negative references to women as "b's" and garden tools. Come on people, stop taking everything so seriously. DL is a comedian, not a reporter. HE IS A COMEDIAN!!! All of you African-Americans complaining about the show, did you watch David Alan Grier's "Chocolate News" and complain about that show as well? "Chocolate News" has just as many sterotypical, if not more, images than DL's show. Or is it ok for "Chocolate News" because it is on Comedy Central and "DL Hughley Breaks the News" is on CNN? Why should DL be banished to Comedy Central??? Why can't he have his show on CNN?? It's as if you are embarrassed because the roaches came out in front of company. :-) I applaud CNN for taking the chance to put a comedic spin on the news. CNN's shows normally just rehash the same news with different people, but it is the exact same story. At least with DL, it is funny. I do agree that the network may want to alter the appearance to the political visuals though. I had recorded the show and had to rewind the visuals to make sure I was seeing a "joke" and not the real thing. But, let's get real---this is a COMEDY show. Stop getting so excited and in an uproar. You know DL's comedy, you've watched him and have laughed at his comedy on Kings of Comedy, on HBO etc. So stop acting all saditty and outraged.

DL, you keep on doing your show . I hope CNN contiues to be courageous enough to let the show continue and grow its audience.

African-American people--support the man!!!!!!!!!

I can't believe anyone would believe this show was a hit. A hit for who? It was totally offensive and I am disappointed that it is now Tuesday and D.L. Hughley has not offered some type of apology.

As for CNN, I am appauled and not one ever could have told me CNN would air something of such poor taste and quality.

I could only watch this show for about 2 minutes and I certainly won't be tuning in for any future shows. And, if this is the type of post-election line up CNN will be providing, I won't be watching CNN much longer either. If it continues, heads need to ROLL!

The show must be taken off. It is a disgrace to all African American's and the whole world see's this. Why are you doing this CNN? What is your motive? Whoever thought this up should be fired.

As to not be redundant. I think Dr. Boyce Watkins, captured the very essence of what most African-Americans feel about this clumsy attempt at humor. When did CNN, become a comedy network. Just Awful. Why not an intellectual like Roland Martin, a weekly show. As an avid watcher of CNN, I'm terribly dissappointed in they would allow this to be aired on "Most Trusted Network For News". I think you have severly breached your trust. This show should be cancelled , immediately. And yes, I am an African-American, that is college educated

DL's show was definitely ignorant, but that is what they wanted it to be. We first need to understand that. White people have done this since the beginning. Black people....don't be surprised that CNN is airing this. They know what they are doing. PLEASE READ BETWEEN THE LINES!!! That is our problem, we don't do that, and never have. That's what they are banking on. Another example, look at BET. There actually used to be informative and intelligent news shows with educated and intelligent news casters like Monique Conrad (http://democrats.senate.gov/steering/afr-am/tab-index.cfm?tab=20), and other political correspondents. Now look what's on BET. Nothing but a bunch of BS for us to watch. WE NEED TO STOP WATCHING TV AND START READING! READING IS ANOTHER THING THEY DON'T WANT US TO DO!! Instead "they" want to continue to dilute our intelligence. We have grown to become stronger, and more united than we used to be. We have to continue to do that by taking it to new levels, new heights, wanting more and demanding more! How do we do that? Through reading and learning what is and shouldn't be acceptable or legal, for that matter. Ok, we get mad and upset about the things DL has said, but we need to look at how we have allowed this to go on for decades by laughing at other comedians when they say it. It really is no different. What we need to do (and it will require lots of change on our own part) is stop supporting it entirely. Not just DL's show, but all of it. We have to stop laughing and supporting others who say the same thing. CNN wanted it this way. Don't you know they hold numerous meetings, and go through scripts numerous times prior to airing or even planning to air any one show. This is meant for us to get mad at each other as a race and continue to keep us divided. We need to petition this. We need to protect our young children by showing them and telling them the difference between good and evil of the world, and begin to teach them how to live and act appropriately so that they can grow up in life to be winners they are. Mainly, so they can have the intelligence to NOT stand for such ignorance and refuse to allow it to continue. But I say it again, CNN and the other companies or individuals that want to keep up such negativity are not going to stop. They will simply discover a new way, so we have to SEE them and realize what's going on, and rise above it, not prove them right, or fall into their planned schemes and traps. Don't think CNN did not plan this. This is all a part of a larger plan. It's bigger than CNN, they are just helping promote. Read between the lines. Don't fall victim to such schemes any longer. I believe they will continue to air this show, and you better believe there is more ignorance to come, whether it be CNN serving it, or some other media source. They want us to stay "dumb", and not just blacks, but every minority race for that matter. They can only accomplish what we allow them. If you allow them to dilute your intelligence by accepting this in your home, they will. Yes, DL did sell his soul to the devil, and several others have too. This isn't simply comedy guys. This is meant to keep us in the same place, or take us back to a mentality of slavery. Look at the other facts. Our community is plagued with AIDS, pregnant teenage girls, drugs, and everything else that is dumped in our communities. We have to change first, we can't expect ANY handouts. I can get mad and call DL a sell out, or I can see why he is selling out - fooled and tricked just like the rest of us have been for DECADES. Let's stop getting mad at white people, and each other, and do something about it. Let's go to school, get educated, keep growing, support each other, tell each other when they're wrong, and not simply agree to have a friend or keep the peace, and most importantly, seek God and his TRUTH. We have been told lies since the beginning. Finally, I don't worry about DL's comments regarding the election. Obama, a BLACK man, is more poised than any other WHITE president I have ever seen or heard of. He clearly is more educated, intelligent, sophisticated, and classy than McCain, and need I say, Palin could ever be. Any human being can see that, whether they are be democrat or republican. Not that Obama is perfect and will free us of all our problems, but he is definitely better than that snake McCain, who was a part of a large financial crisis himself, called the "Keating 5". Google it. Bottom line: who cares what they say and what they try to do...keep God in you every day and strive to be more than you are today, everyday! Be loyal to your true friends, and show love to those who don't show it to you. You will be blessed every time!

DL has always been an arrogant moron who finally made his way to the top off of a ged education. His commentary on the Bill Maher show often shows his political ignorance. CNN please stop this racist demigod and put someone with more substance like a Jackie Reed.

This show was full of stereotypes about African Americans and have no place on CNN. I for one would like to know what companies are sponsoring this show. I will stop supporting them.

I found DL Hughley's show highly offensive, I didn't find his freddie mac the pimp or hoe, nigger jokes funny at all. This type of material has no place on national TV. It seems like CNN goes out of its way to depict blacks in a egative way, like that other trash (Being Black in America ) Is CNN being ran by a unch of undercover racist ?. I wont watch CNN again. I will watch a real news channel. MSNBC

D.L. We all make mistakes. Just admit it to yourself and end this nightmare before it tarnishes your entire career. Your jokes are stale and tired. There is more to life than clinging to old stereotypes that may be a part of YOUR history. Your view of African-Americans can't be applied to all African-Americans. Brother, save yourself! Basically your humor needs to mature. It's very childish to say the least.

Monday, October 27, 2008
DL Hughley’s Def (and Dumb) Comedy Jam on CNN

By Dr. Boyce Watkins
www.BoyceWatkins.com

I continue to be irritated by Fox News, which is why I don’t watch it. We know clear racism when we see it, and it should not be legitimized by our viewership. However, I’ve always given CNN a pass. I’ve overlooked the fact that nearly every financial analyst on the network is a White male, since that tends to be the norm in almost every academic department in America. I could almost overlook the atrocious spectacle called “Black in America”, which presented African Americans to the world as pathetic lab rats to be studied and pitied. When it came to CNN, I presumed that they are simply victims of the same institutionalized racism which plagues nearly every other corporation, university and media outlet in our country. I don’t get mad at every racist I see, since I truly, and perhaps naively, believe that most Americans strive to be good people.

But the new CNN show, “DL Hughley Breaks the News” was something I simply cannot forgive.

In Hughley’s new show, he attempts to add a comedic spin to the presidential election with “commentary” by characters such as “Freddie Mac”, a pimp who apparently caused the financial crisis. In the interview with Freddie Mac, the pimp makes typical pimp-like comments such as “bitch betta have my money”, and “pimps up, hoes down” in reference to the 2008 Presidential election. There are also segments which explain that President Obama’s healthcare plan would include “gold grills for everyone”, along with other equally tasteless jokes that have no place on an allegedly “mainstream” news network just a few days before one of the most significant elections in American history. Nearly every joke on Hughley’s show came back to some generalized stereotype, reminding us that African Americans are seen as relatively trifling “social critters” and not much of anything else. My good friend Roland Martin at CNN has never received the same respect as political caricatures like Nancy Grace and Glenn Beck. So, the most degrading thing CNN can do is to finally give an African American a show after he agrees to turn the stellar Obama presidential campaign into a minstrel show. I am not sure if Flavor Flav or Juan Williams (the educated version of Flavor Flav) could have done a better job.

I have to say that DL Hughley lost my respect 2 years ago during the Don Imus debacle. After working hard on the phone with Rev. Jackson and Rev. Sharpton to construct a plan to challenge Imus’ corporate sponsors, I was saddened to watch DL use this situation as an opportunity to say things that no self-respecting Black public figure would say. On the Jay Leno show, I dropped my face to the floor when I heard Hughley say, “Yes, those women really WERE a pack of nappy headed hoes!” I could not understand why Hughley could not simply make the appearance as a comedian citing the quality of his work, rather than a Black man agreeing to engage in the degradation of Black women for the enjoyment of a predominantly white audience.

At that point, I decided that when DL Hughley is on a show, I will not watch him. I can understand the grit and grind of getting ahead, but getting ahead at all costs makes you a professional garden tool. Perhaps the show’s resident pimp, Freddie Mac could use DL as one of his employees. The idea that this seasoned comedian would leverage his Blackness in such a degrading way simply makes me wonder why he never developed greater range as a performer. His laughs always go back to the same old unintelligent place, like the little kid on the school bus who memorizes 800 “ya mama” jokes and recites them one by one to keep the other kids laughing. Just when Obama taught us all to step outside the box, CNN and DL Hughley have reminded us to stay inside the socio-political ghetto. The audience members are not laughing WITH you DL, they are laugh AT YOU.

I make these comments as a Black man, which I’ve been for quite a while now. I am a loyal fan of Katt Williams, Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Richard Pryor, Wanda Sykes, Eddie Murphy and other cutting edge and incredibly talented comedians. I don’t wear my “Black Panther Hat” everywhere I go, and I have as many guilty pleasures as anyone when it comes to laughing about things that might be considered offensive. I also say this as a moderate fan of Def Comedy Jam, most forms of hip hop and nearly everything else that reflects the beauty and diversity of being Black in our great nation. But the truth of the matter is that there must be a point where the line is drawn, like realizing that you don’t put a porn shop inside a church or bring a gun to a baby shower. It is amazing that CNN would sign off on this show right before such an historic and politically sacred event, sending a clear message to African Americans that the only way to get their attention is to “be really black and make us laugh”. This once again underscores the necessity for more black-owned media outlets. Perhaps if there were a greater diversity of Black-owned media in America, we would not have to sell each other out for our moment in the sun. Until that time, I’ll be getting most of my news from the Internet.

Congratulations DL, it appears that your show will be a smash hit. You’ve become America’s favorite nappy headed hoe. I really hope it was worth it.

Labels: african american scholars, black scholars, dl hughley breaks the news

posted by Dr. Boyce Watkins @ 6:35 PM 8 Comments

8 Comments:
At October 27, 2008 7:18 PM , Anonymous said...
I was equally offended and frankly, stunned that CNN would take this step backward. But, I wasn't surprised that D.L. would agree to participate. Hopefully, enough people will complain and he will clean up his act. It was not funny!

Gail Smith

At October 27, 2008 7:24 PM , Anonymous said...
AMEN! I agree with everything you wrote!

At October 27, 2008 7:57 PM , Maurice said...
This was a very good passage. I was unable to catch D.L.'s Début but after reading your Blog, I am stunned that Mr. DL is applying to become the new "Black Face" for our counterparts. I am not shocked at the style, I must say, as you wrote, his jokes have not changed, although his audience has. I will never down my fellow brother but instead enlighten and educate him. We must remember that all has fallen short and it is not until the eyes are open do we see our mistakes. I hope to see one of DL's elders such as Mr. Steve Harvey take him to the side and educate him. You see, there are many brothers who are lost but if we cut our numbers instead of educating them, we are ultimately facing extinction as a whole. DL is in a position to educate and open the eyes of those that the average man cannot reach. That is why it is important to aim our stregnth at turning him around rather than tearing him apart. Lets find a way to equipped this young brother with the tools to needed to bring the African-American people up so he doesn't have to hold on to the negatives which holds us down.

At October 27, 2008 9:40 PM , Anonymous said...
Congratulations on such a great and well-written article. I echo ALL of your sentiments. I want Hughley off the air!
I can't understand why or how CNN would partner with DL Hughley to put on such an offensive, racially divisive and untactful performance, which was the poorest attempt at humor that I have ever witnessed. I have to wonder how many other educated, African American viewers, or American viewers at large, were as offended as I. I can bet you that there were many. It demonstrated poor writing, poor performance, poor comedy, poor judgment, and the list goes on. CNN must now stand for “Comedy News Network”. This type of show does little for CNN being a credible news organization. I have a sense of humor but not at the expense of my dignity. Blacks should sue Hughley for slander of the black race.

At October 27, 2008 10:02 PM , Anonymous said...
I hope the blogs posted here reach DL Hughley. There was nothing gained by the show that aired on Sunday night. DL should be ashamed of himself! I hope he knows that if the show continues in the fashion that aired on Sunday night he will ruin his career as a comedian. I wander what was in the CNN contract.....hmmmmmmm!!!

At October 27, 2008 11:26 PM , Maryamb said...
I have to say I wrote a post so close to what this author it is eerie. Shame on David Allen and DL. I have to say I rather enjoyed the comment about DL being America's next favorite nappy headed hoe. Now that is comedy. If DL owned the fact that he sold out and came out and said this on his show, I would regain some of the respect I have lose for him.

At October 28, 2008 1:47 AM , Anonymous said...
No, not this time!
Give me a break on this one! How did CNN let this pass the smell test and why? We need to have African Americans represent us in the spot light, but NOT LIKE THIS! Someone please contact this brother and have a talk with him on style, substance and the impact on the larger community. The show was a total disgrace, disappointing and very embarrassing to say the least. We are about to embrace some very positive moments in history and this show severely underminds the impact. I am certain D.L. Hughley can do a much better job with his material and I will be looking forward to an immediate change in format with the upcoming shows.

Frank
Baltimore

At October 28, 2008 8:39 AM , Velma said...
DL how dare you help CNN renforce the sterotypes blacks have works so hard to expell. The portion of the show I could stomach was offensive. What kind of message are you sending to your children. CNN has sent a message of what they think of Black people and I got. I have lost all respect for what I thought was a serious news station. I will no longer watch such ignorance.

I would like to respond to Ms 44 yr old college educated. Just goes to prove that a college education doesn't make you smart. It's about time we stopped supporting ignorance. Being black doesn't make you a brother or a sister! This anything goes and we should support it is ridiculous! He has the right to say whatever he wants, and we also have the right to respond, besides just because something has been going on for a long time doesn't make it acceptable.

I found the Hughley show to not only be unfunny, but offensive. I wrote more detail about this on my blog, but to be honest, I was disgusted. The show consisted of 'black people like fried chicken' and 'black people are black!' jokes. The fact that Obama is so close to the White House should inspire other black people to not settle for the same old nonsense. Times are changing, D.L. Hughley is stuck in the past.

The republicans have Tina Fey putting the screws to thier vp candidate by showing her for what she is. On the other hand we (democrats) have DL Hugley, putting down our presidential candidate through tired played out racial stereotypes.......... Well at least Tina Fey is funny!

D.L's show on BET Comics was horrendous. His comedy consists of offending and insulting others and laughing at himself for doing it. I've never thought him to be funny. I have seen him on Glen Beck and Bill Mauer(HBO) where he did give intelligent, analysis of American culture. Tonight was not a continuation of those thoughts.

His comment to the Indian reporter that nobody cares what they think was callous(true D.L. style). I don't think I saw more that ten minutes total of this show.

SHAME, SHAME, SHAME! D L, keep you jokes to yourself. This shows that HE must have very low-esteem. Perhaps he is working for the republicans. I know some republicans who are offended. It is strange that it show started one week before the campaign. TSK, TSK. He should be ashamed.

As I watched DL Hughley on CNN I was in disbelief. It was hard to find words to express how offensive & humiliating he was & at such a critical time when many are losing their jobs & families are losing their homes. Soilders lives swept away in this senseless war & thousands of very sick people are going without medical attention because they can't afford healthcare. Like so many I was shocked. The fact that he was NOT funny goes without saying but I always assumed that DL was somewhat intelligent. I was wrong, & his ignorance is not based on the fact that he has a GED as he stated. CNN allowed this to air at this time to bring a negative affect on white voters towards Sen Obama's campaign & a reproach on blacks & obviously they knew DL would take the bait, but (NO WEAPONS FORMED AGAINST US SHALL PROSPER). DL Hughley does not represent Black America. We must with diligence make our demand known on every blog, website & radio station that we can, that this show must be cancelled effective immediately. I wish DL Hughley continued success in his profession but not at the expense of others especially African Americans. CNN our voices will ring out and many will know that you are a racist news station. I'm sure MSNBC thanks you for now making them Black America's choice for REAL NEWS!

I have lost all respect for D.L. All. I think this show will put a lid on his career. I surely hope so. I was hoping this would have been a more serious look at news unlike David Allen Grier's new show. Give me real news or Dave Chapelle.

Apparently, my standards for what passes as entertaining are much higher than CNN and the Baltimore Sun. The show was beyond bad. It made me sick and I was embarrassed for D.L. Hughley. So I agree with those who fond the show offensive and hope CNN does the right thing by taking it off the air.

DL's show was definitely ignorant, but that is what they wanted it to be. We first need to understand that. White people have done this since the beginning. Black people....don't be surprised that CNN is airing this. They know what they are doing. PLEASE READ BETWEEN THE LINES!!! That is our problem, we don't do that, and never have. That's what they are banking on. Another example, look at BET. There actually used to be informative and intelligent news shows with educated and intelligent news casters like Monique Conrad (http://democrats.senate.gov/steering/afr-am/tab-index.cfm?tab=20), and other political correspondents. Now look what's on BET. Nothing but a bunch of BS for us to watch. WE NEED TO STOP WATCHING TV AND START READING! READING IS ANOTHER THING THEY DON'T WANT US TO DO!! Instead "they" want to continue to dilute our intelligence. We have grown to become stronger, and more united than we used to be. We have to continue to do that by taking it to new levels, new heights, wanting more and demanding more! How do we do that? Through reading and learning what is and shouldn't be acceptable or legal, for that matter. Ok, we get mad and upset about the things DL has said, but we need to look at how we have allowed this to go on for decades by laughing at other comedians when they say it. It really is no different. What we need to do (and it will require lots of change on our own part) is stop supporting it entirely. Not just DL's show, but all of it. We have to stop laughing and supporting others who say the same thing. CNN wanted it this way. Don't you know they hold numerous meetings, and go through scripts numerous times prior to airing or even planning to air any one show. This is meant for us to get mad at each other as a race and continue to keep us divided. We need to petition this. We need to protect our young children by showing them and telling them the difference between good and evil of the world, and begin to teach them how to live and act appropriately so that they can grow up in life to be winners they are. Mainly, so they can have the intelligence to NOT stand for such ignorance and refuse to allow it to continue. But I say it again, CNN and the other companies or individuals that want to keep up such negativity are not going to stop. They will simply discover a new way, so we have to SEE them and realize what's going on, and rise above it, not prove them right, or fall into their planned schemes and traps. Don't think CNN did not plan this. This is all a part of a larger plan. It's bigger than CNN, they are just helping promote. Read between the lines. Don't fall victim to such schemes any longer. I believe they will continue to air this show, and you better believe there is more ignorance to come, whether it be CNN serving it, or some other media source. They want us to stay "dumb", and not just blacks, but every minority race for that matter. They can only accomplish what we allow them. If you allow them to dilute your intelligence by accepting this in your home, they will. Yes, DL did sell his soul to the devil, and several others have too. This isn't simply comedy guys. This is meant to keep us in the same place, or take us back to a mentality of slavery. Look at the other facts. Our community is plagued with AIDS, pregnant teenage girls, drugs, and everything else that is dumped in our communities. We have to change first, we can't expect ANY handouts. I can get mad and call DL a sell out, or I can see why he is selling out - fooled and tricked just like the rest of us have been for DECADES. Let's stop getting mad at white people, and each other, and do something about it. Let's go to school, get educated, keep growing, support each other, tell each other when they're wrong, and not simply agree to have a friend or keep the peace, and most importantly, seek God and his TRUTH. We have been told lies since the beginning. Finally, I don't worry about DL's comments regarding the election. Obama, a BLACK man, is more poised than any other WHITE president I have ever seen or heard of. He clearly is more educated, intelligent, sophisticated, and classy than McCain, and need I say, Palin could ever be. Any human being can see that, whether they are be democrat or republican. Not that Obama is perfect and will free us of all our problems, but he is definitely better than that snake McCain, who was a part of a large financial crisis himself, called the "Keating 5". Google it. Bottom line: who cares what they say and what they try to do...keep God in you every day and strive to be more than you are today, everyday! Be loyal to your true friends, and show love to those who don't show it to you. You will be blessed every time!

I did not see the D.L Show on CNN, However, after hearing all the drama D.L stirred up, I did view it on "You Tube". It was terrible! Disgustingly down-grading African Americans, and more so putting down the highly intellectual Barack Obama! It just goes to show what D.L said years ago is true when he first became "popular" that he would do "ANYTHING" to feed his family! Well, looks like he did, because he sold out to 'feed his family". But with this trash, they should be still hungry!!!

EVERYONE CALM DOWN!!! THE FIRST THING WE DO IS GO OFF WHEN SOMETHING IS UNCOMFORTALBE. PEOPLE HATED SNL IN 73, PEOPLE HATED LAUGH IN.... I HAVE TAKEN OUT MY TIME TO READ MOST OF THESE COMMENTST AND AT BEST BESIDES THE 44 YEARS OLD INTELLEGENT SISTER WHO AT LEAST IN ALL FEARNESS WOULD LIKE TO GIVE IT A CHANCE DID NOT LEND ANY SUGGESTIONS. YOU HAVE SO MUCH SPIT FIRE FOR THE BROTHER. JUST LEND SOME SUGGESTIONS TO THE BROTHER. I AM NOT A FAN OF DL HUGLEY BUT MY GOD!!!! I DON'T DOUBT FOR ONE MINUTE THAT MOST OFYOU ARE CLEAR THINKING EDUCATED FOLKS. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE SOME SUGGESTIONS... I FOR ONE SUGGEST THAT DL HUGLEY SEE THESE HARSH CRITIQUES AS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHIFT SOME OF THE BAD STUFF TO WHAT COULD PERHAPS BE A GREAT SHOW!!! BUT THE ENERGY INTO WHAT COULD WORK - BE CREATIVE WITH YOUR SUGGESTIONS. MAYBE HE WILL TAKE WHAT YOU SAY INTO CONSIDERATION. I THINK HE CARES ABOUT WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY. HE HAS A FAMILY TO FEED TOO. I KNOW I AM GOING TO GET CURSED OUT SO BRING IT ON... LOL

A third class comedy on a news channel.

CNN. should review it if they want to keep their viewers.

Waste of time-- laughs didn't happen for us during the first few minutes of his show. Gave him about 7 minutes still nothing so we turned it off. King played it up like it was gonna be a bomb. True that.

I was excited to watch the hilarious DL Hughley! To my suprise I became immediately offended by his taste of comedy. How can he as a black man believe his tasteless, sterotypical and offensive comedy would be acceptable anytime, and particularly at time when America is trying relentlessly to elect the first black president? Why DL? Why would you reinforce negative sterotypes of black people? The CNN audience is a majority of white people. Do you think this is acceptable. If you do, Mr. Hughley, you are delusional and a sell out. You are now comparable to Flava Flave. You belong on BET Comic view, not CNN! You have lost my support as I have been a long time fan. You and CNN must do better!

A third class comedy on a news channel.

CNN. should review it if they want to keep their viewers.

I will NOT be supporting this show. It was offensive and I am ashamed of DL!

I agree with most of the comments posted about the first episode. I didn’t read any of the promo articles at the show, so I didn’t realize that he was going to change the news. I thought he was going to make jokes out of the ‘real’ news. But I was shocked and disturbed by the Freddie Mac skit and the part about everyone getting grills under Barack Obama’s health care plan. However, that wasn’t the only part of the show. He interviewed one of the CNN consultants, the Miss Alaska that beat Sarah Palin and Scott McLennon who was the White House Press secratary and I thought that the history of black presidents in film was good but would've liked him to present more examples. However, I want to disagree with the suggestion that the show should be cancelled. I hope that he is listening to the feedback of the people that watched the first week and makes adjustments for the next show but I don’t think we should just write the show off after one episode. I think that DL Hughley deserves a 2nd chance (not a 3rd or 4th chance) but at least a 2nd chance to make a better impression with this show. I will give him that chance this weekend but that is it. I hope he doesn’t disappoint two weeks in a row.

PLEASE PEOPLE….WE KNOW THE PROBLEM. WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO ABOUT IT??!! PLEASE, WE MUST DEMAND THAT CNN REMOVE THIS SHOW FROM THE AIR TODAY. IT CANNOT AIR AGAIN THIS WEEKEND! IF YOU’RE WILLING TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS PLEASE EMAIL ME AT gttcouncil@aol.com AND LET’S COME TOGETHER TO CALL FOR AND IMPOSE IMMEDIATE SANCTIONS ON CNN, i.e., BOYCOTT THEM UNTIL THEY REMOVE THE SHOW! THERE ARE MANY OTHER THINGS THAT WE NEED TO DO, AND CAN DO IMMEDIATELY. I RESIDE IN ATL AND AM READY TO START PICKETING THE CNN HEADQUARTERS BUILDING NOW! WILL YOU JOIN ME? WE CAN ALSO START BLOWING UP THEIR TELEPHONES, AND ALSO THE OFFICES OF HUGLEY’S AGENTS, MANAGERS, ETC., IF HE HAS ONE. AS FAR AS HUGLEY…HE SHOULD BE COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN! NO MORE CELEBRITY STATUS FOR HIM. ANYONE WHO BOOKS HIM, SHOULD BE SANCTIONED. ALL OF HIS SHOWS SHOULD BE BOYCOTTED! HE HAS TRULY LOST HIS MIND!!!

Mia M. said this on October 29, 2008 at 6:04 pm

David, you are joking, right? Did you watch this show? I tried to watch this crap with a group of 5 people and we all had the exact same view of the show. We could barely keep the TV on because we were so disgusted about how stereotypical it was, and more importantly, how UNFUNNY it was. I'm speechless that you found this even mildly entertaining.

PLEASE.........DO NOT AIR DL HUGLEY'S SHOW AGAIN.  IT WAS ABSOLUTELY RANCID!  I LIKE HIM AS A COMEDIAN, BUT THIS IS NOT THE TIME TO BE "AMOS & ANDY".  I AM A "SENIOR CITIZEN" AND HIGHLY OFFENDED BY THIS SHOW.  WE HAVE COME TO FAR TO GO BACK TO THE DAY.....DL, DO BETTER OR GET LOST.  I WILL NOT SUPPORT THIS KIND OF SHOW AND IF WE HAVE TO PROTEST, WE WILL!!!!

It is time to stop allowing comedians like D. L Hughley to degrade people. His show on CNN was a display of ignorance. It was a nightmare. I turned him off, because his show got worse as time progressed. This show was in extreme bad taste, and was very offensive. Iam sure it is no accident that this type of trash aired just before the election. CNN I am disgusted at you for showing this. I will be prepared to do what ever necessay to see this type of trash barred. D. L. Hughley you should have the guts and decency to step away from this type of garbage. And if you can't do anything positive, just go away.

It is time to stop allowing comedians like D. L Hughley to degrade people. His show on CNN was a display of ignorance. It was a nightmare. I turned him off, because his show got worse as time progressed. This show was in extreme bad taste, and was very offensive. Iam sure it is no accident that this type of trash aired just before the election. CNN I am disgusted at you for showing this. I will be prepared to do what ever necessay to see this type of trash barred. D. L. Hughley you should have the guts and decency to step away from this type of garbage. And if you can't do anything positive, just go away.

It's been since Saturday since I have watched CNN after DL Ugly's horrific show & I'm not missing it. Keith O & Rachel are doing just fine. If they can't respect us, then we won't support them. Boycott this horrific show everyone & please voice your concern to CNN. We do not deserve this type of bufoonery and coonery to be displayed on a national cable news network. WTF was DL thinking???

People need to lighten up. And realize that there is a need for satire when addressing today's news; simply because human beings do some crazy things. Everybody is so easily offended. And guess what.. I'm an African American too, and I was not offended. Actually I'm feeling that these so called "African Americans" are probably some Fox News subscribers who want to get rid of someone who will influence the uninformed to be more informed. In addition, my favorite news show is the Daily Show.....

Oh... and think about this stuff that we see on Fox News, that are really "plainly biased" editorials.

I believe CNN has made a good choice. I also believe that Mr. Hughley will improve in time, being that this is a new thing for him.

- Much Love.

I'm not quite sure what everyone is so surprised about. Honestly, did you really, really think D.L was going to do a quality comedy show? Have you seen any of his other comedy? Comic View for instance? The guy has been an embarrasment to black comedy for years!!!!!!!! I have never liked the guy and will not support his show and I'm a black female. As soon as I saw an ad for his show on CNN.com all I thought was "oh boy, here we go..." He's always taken stereotypes of blacks and used it in his comedy in the most hurtful ways. Even when he had his TV show way back (on ABC I think it was?). It is not a surprise that his show was cancelled back then and this one may be as well. People are acting like this is something new. He hasn't changed and just because he has a show on CNN doesn't mean he's going to suddenly change is comedy act and do anything different then he has been. He's not funny. Period! Never has been. I do understand, David Zurawick, that you would like people to give the show a chance, since you are right that you can never really tell about a show from ONE episode but you have to undersand that a lot of people have been displeased with D.L. for a long time and do NOT care for his comedy and never will.

I am a young black american, and I am ashamed to hear what others are saying about D.L. The economy is bad, people are starving, sick, dying, suffering, and the world looks at AMERICAN's (not black, white, asian, etc) as a joke.

The man is feeding his family, and making a huge stride for black men around by joining a WORLD KNOWN network station that predominately did no hire black men as a face to represent the network. Granted his humor wasn't always tactful, but it his first day on the job, come on!

Also, the comment that he is a bad Representative for blacks, especially with Obama as a Presidential Candidate is beyond untrue. This election is about change. How are we ever going to be just American (instead of a white, black, or asian American) if everyone keeps using race as a scapegoat to what happens, or what we feel. Don't get me wrong, it is hard being a black man in America, but being a Mexican, Hindu, Korean, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or Arab ain't easy either nowadays.

Stop calling someone a sellout and support change. If we take advantage of every opportunity placed in front of us then we are bound to be successful and make a name for ourselves, and our race. i.e. - Barrak Obama!

I'M SURE THAT DL HAS HEARD ALL OF THE NEGATIVE COMMENTS. THIS IS THE SECOND OPPORTUNITY I'VE TAKEN TO EXPRESS MY DISGUST. I EMAILED LARRY KING A FEW DAYS AGO. BECAUSE THE SHOW DISTURBED ME SO MUCH I DECIDED TO SEE OTHER REACTIONS AND I AM GLAD THAT MOST WERE REPULSED BY IT. MAYBE CNN WILL TAKE ACTION, IF THEY DON'T AND THEY ALLOW THIS ABSOLUTE ASSASINATION OF OUR RESPECTABILITY, CHARACTER. INTEGRITY, OUR RACE TO GO ON WE WILL ABSOLUTELY KNOW THEY HAVE AN AGENDA. WE WILL KNOW EMPHATICALLY THAT THE POWERS THAT BE WANT US TO HAVE NO CREDIBILITY OR RESPECTABILITY.
THIS HAS TOTALLY CHANGED MY OPINION OF D L WHOM I ALWAYS HELD UP AS A HIGHLY INTELLIGENT BLACK MAN. I HAVE SEEN HIS GREAT MIND WORK. BUT THIS BUFFOONERY IS UNFORGIVING. I CAN IMAGINE HIM SAYING F!! US HE IS PROVIDING FOR HIS CHILDREN ESPECIALLY SINCE HE WAS SO POOR GROWING UP. IT MUST HAVE BEEN AWFUL BECAUSE HE IS CERTAINLY SELLING HIS SOUL, HE PUT A SMALL PRICE TAG ON HIMSELF. TOO BAD HE DOES NOT HAVE THE SELF RESPECT THAT DAVE CHAPPELLE DOES.
AS OTHERS HAVE COMMENTED MOST WHO THINK THIS IS ACCEPTABLE ARE OTHERS.

WOW! All this talk and commotion. I have never seen the show but I do have an understanding of the controversial comedic style of D.L. very similar to the god of Comedy the great Richard Pryor and I believe CNN knew also who they were getting into bed with. So I can't wait to see it for myself. Great marketing tool CNN!

This is very sad indeed. It's tragic not funny at all. CNN and DL should be ashamed.The world is watching CNN, not just America. You have managed to offend black people world wide, who have up to this point been proud of America's achievement in the first African-American nominee for President. This has made a mockery of black achievement and taken us back to the point in history when blacks were portrayed only as "court jesters" or "golliwogs" which DL personifies with that hairstyle. All who think this is harmless humour at this pivotal point in history are simply nieve! I really hope DL is not selling out his race for a few bucks. The "undecided voters" will certainly be convinced that a blackman in the White House would be a mistake......way to go DL stabb Obama in the back!!!

I was enthusiastic at first about this show. Unfortunately, within the first five minutes I realized that this show was highly offensive. I felt so uncomfortable watching it. I kept changing the channel and hoping it would go away, but it just got worst when I tuned in. I love DL, but not on CNN. Please remove this show from CNN. It belongs on some late night comedy channel. I am not sure even then that I would watch it.

I was looking forward to see an intelligent comedy show on CNN. However, after I watch the first five minutes I was highly disappointed. DL is good comedian, but He belongs some where else not CNN. I hope CNN pulled the plug.

it was horrible! the show is horrible, again pure buffon(s) crap! and the bad thing about this is i have heard his smarts on tom joyner in the morning and it all is going to waste. please change this into something where dl shows his smarts before it is too late!
not now dl, not right now

Dude, just because your white does not mean you have to support this waste of primetime space. The show sucks, D.L. Hugley is not funny and he's uneducated. The only reason he got this break is because of the lack of minorities in Hollyhood. It's ok to white and hate the show if you need a pass cause someone want's to call you rascist or unsupportive, give em my email address and I will write you a hall pass.

I am a 70 year old white woman and I will vote for mcCain......out of the tree of life you guys picked a plum DL MAKES PUFFY OR BRAD PITT look like the have been hit in the mouth by a boxer and compared to dl puffy looks llike he buys his clothes from goodwill He is handsome smart funny I will always watch him good humor nice person

The CNN / DL Hughley show is horrible. I cringe at the racial stereotypes that are displayed on the show. It is that embarrassing as a US citizen to watch! Not funny on any level. It's sad!

I'm amazed that in an historical election year, CNN execs. would make such a misguided decision to air this. This is as bad as the thinking behind the XFL that Vince McMahon tried a few years back!

Horrible programming, horrible decision making, and yes, someone should be fired over this!

Off to a promising start? Only if you are a bigoted, narrow minded, ignorant individual.....then yes, the show is off to a promising start in feeding you garbage that you can use to feed upon and reinforce your negative view of a whole race of people. Promising start indeed!!

DL Houghley, the show, had me on the edge on my seat! The man is a genius, saying the right things at the spur of the moment it was awesome to watch, all you guys that think it is so bad you must of been grillin or something.

I am so sad and disappointed in CNN. I am black, and have come to regard CNN as one of the most respected cable news stations on television. Doesn’t anyone see how this undermines everything we are tying to unchain ourselves from? I too want black programming, but not at such a high cost. Comedy is good, but Minstrel is Minstrel, and I don't care how much money DL is paid. Obama deserves better. I would expect this from FOX. Shame on you CNN
COMPLAINT FORM FOR CNN BELOW – MAKE YOU VOICE HEARD
http://www.cnn.com/feedback/forms/form5.html?107
If Obama loses this race YOU will share the blame DL. You will be the new NADER!

The DL Hughley show is stupid. I am a long time fan of CNN and still think it is the best news channel. I watch all the time, but DL's show is no good. Nevermind that it is controversial, if Hughley was actually funny I might be able to deal with it as comedy. The point is that it just isn't a good show. DL Hughley is not funny, he is a wanna-be Chris Rock/Dave Chapelle and not nearly as funny as either.

I hope the writer of this article is kidding. This show was an abomination and sets race relations back 50 years! The silver lining might be that it is exposing his comedic style for what it is - negative. What would happen if people stopped attending his shows, or any kind of show that depicts anyone - but especially certain races in a negative light?
If you're not part of the solution - you're part of the problem!

This is what I wrote to CNN's online feedback:

PLEASE cancel this show and take it off CNN. I am a dedicated CNN viewer but this show just does not belong on a professional network such as CNN. Come on guys, get your act together and take this show off, you need to maintain your professional image! I mean I can understand that you guys would like to put in a little comedy onto CNN to give the network a light comedic touch, and a joke here and there by your anchors is perfectly acceptable, but when you have a guy who's cussing and saying things which derogatory, you're going to lose viewers and lose your professional credibility. COME ON CNN, YOU'RE BETTER THAN THIS.

-concerned cnn fan

Hey peeps!

Now to the nitty-gritty.....You know I hate having to shake up another brother, but damn. I watched comedian DL Hughley's new show "DL Hughley Breaks the News" and I wanted to create another show called "Dr. Boyce Watkins Breaks Your Ass" (you think CNN would air that?). I have never, in my life, seen a "mainstream" news organization like CNN engage in the use of so many negative stereotypes of African Americans in order to make a buck. I was saddened and disappointed by what I saw.

My commentary is below. I will stop talking before I get myself into trouble.

DL Hughley’s Def (and Dumb) Comedy Jam on CNN

I continue to be irritated by Fox News, which is why I don’t watch it. We know clear racism when we see it, and it should not be legitimized by our viewership. However, I’ve always given CNN a pass. I’ve overlooked the fact that nearly every financial analyst on the network is a White male, since that tends to be the norm in almost every academic department in America. I could almost overlook the atrocious spectacle called “Black in America”, which presented African Americans to the world as pathetic lab rats to be studied and pitied. When it came to CNN, I presumed that they are simply victims of the same institutionalized racism which plagues nearly every other corporation, university and media outlet in our country.. I don’t get mad at every racist I see, since I truly, and perhaps naively, believe that most Americans strive to be good people.
But the new CNN show, “DL Hughley Breaks the News” was something I simply cannot forgive.
In Hughley’s new show, he attempts to add a comedic spin to the presidential election with “commentary” by characters such as “Freddie Mac”, a pimp who apparently caused the financial crisis. In the interview with Freddie Mac, the pimp makes typical pimp-like comments such as “bitch betta have my money”, and “pimps up, hoes down” in reference to the 2008 Presidential election. There are also segments which explain that President Obama’s healthcare plan would include “gold grills for everyone”, along with other equally tasteless jokes that have no place on an allegedly “mainstream” news network just a few days before one of the most significant elections in American history. Nearly every joke on Hughley’s show came back to some generalized stereotype, reminding us that African Americans are seen as relatively trifling “social critters” and not much of anything else. My good friend Roland Martin at CNN has never received the same respect as political caricatures like Nancy Grace and Glenn Beck. So, the most degrading thing CNN can do is to finally give an African American a show after he agrees to turn the stellar Obama presidential campaign into a minstrel show. I am not sure if Flavor Flav or Juan Williams (the educated version of Flavor Flav) could have done a better job.
I have to say that DL Hughley lost my respect 2 years ago during the Don Imus debacle. After working hard on the phone with Rev. Jackson and Rev. Sharpton to construct a plan to challenge Imus’ corporate sponsors, I was saddened to watch DL use this situation as an opportunity to say things that no self-respecting Black public figure would say. On the Jay Leno show, I dropped my face to the floor when I heard Hughley say, “Yes, those women really WERE a pack of nappy headed hoes!” I could not understand why Hughley could not simply make the appearance as a comedian citing the quality of his work, rather than a Black man agreeing to engage in the degradation of Black women for the enjoyment of a predominantly white audience.
At that point, I decided that when DL Hughley is on a show, I will not watch him. I can understand the grit and grind of getting ahead, but getting ahead at all costs makes you a professional garden tool. Perhaps the show’s resident pimp, Freddie Mac could use DL as one of his employees. The idea that this seasoned comedian would leverage his Blackness in such a degrading way simply makes me wonder why he never developed greater range as a performer. His laughs always go back to the same old unintelligent place, like the little kid on the school bus who memorizes 800 “ya mama” jokes and recites them one by one to keep the other kids laughing. Just when Obama taught us all to step outside the box, CNN and DL Hughley have reminded us to stay inside the socio-political ghetto. The audience members are not laughing WITH you DL, they are laugh AT YOU.
I make these comments as a Black man, which I’ve been for quite a while now. I am a loyal fan of Katt Williams, Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Richard Pryor, Wanda Sykes, Eddie Murphy and other cutting edge and incredibly talented comedians. I don’t wear my “Black Panther Hat” everywhere I go, and I have as many guilty pleasures as anyone when it comes to laughing about things that might be considered offensive. I also say this as a moderate fan of Def Comedy Jam, most forms of hip hop and nearly everything else that reflects the beauty and diversity of being Black in our great nation. But the truth of the matter is that there must be a point where the line is drawn, like realizing that you don’t put a porn shop inside a church or bring a gun to a baby shower. It is amazing that CNN would sign off on this show right before such an historic and politically sacred event, sending a clear message to African Americans that the only way to get their attention is to “be really black and make us laugh”. This once again underscores the necessity for more black-owned media outlets. Perhaps if there were a greater diversity of Black-owned media in America, we would not have to sell each other out for our moment in the sun. Until that time, I’ll be getting most of my news from the Internet.
Congratulations DL, it appears that your show will be a smash hit. You’ve become America’s favorite

The DL show is so blatantly racist. I cannot believe it is still on the air. I mean it seems as if they allowed this guy to sacrifice himself on national television in order to make all persons of color look bad at such a pivotal time in the nation's history. It baffles my mind, that a reputable news network like CNN would allow this distasteful, disgusting, racist, ignorant programing. I am completely shocked.....and speechless. To enjoy this show is to admit being a racist. PERIOD!!

CNN is trying to stay competitive. I think that some smart people there have read the writing on the wall. Political sketch comedy and satire are very powerful, ratings boosting, tools.

How Dare You call this a hit! DL Hughley should be ashamed of himself. CNN needs to apologize for insulting the black people AGAIN! We are not PIMPS, Pork chop eating idiots. We are intellegent God fearing, working people. The media loves to project the black race as a race of savages. DL IS NOT FUNNY! He is a coon who will do anything for $$ even sell out his own people. Idiot! CANCEL THIS INSULTING PROGRAM! I have started an email campaign to let CNN know we will not continue to be projected in such a negative light. CNN has stepped back in time with this one and got the black man who will do anything for $$$ to do it. WHO IS THE REAL PIMP! DL Hughley how could you? in a time when this entire country is SCREAMING! let's stop the nonsense and move forward to make some POSITIVE CHANGES your dumb GREEDY IGNORANT butt does something this. INSULTING BEYOND belief!

Hi, The show has been on the air for five weeks, and the criticism of the show virtually stopped after week one. Is there some out there I am not aware of? Please share. Thanks. Z

Z the show may have been on for a few weeks but most BLACKS do not find DL Hughley FUNNY! He is a thug and comes across as the low end comedian. With that said. Considering I am not a fan of Hughley (non sense, lack depth humor) I knew I was not going to watch the program. Though I must admit I wondered why would CNN choose DL Hughley, he looks like a thug, he is not funny his audience tends to be mostly White because they think his type of low rent humor is funny. Anyway, I received an email on yestereday with the clip from this show. AND THIS IS WHY THERE IS A RENEWED DISGUST FOR THIS insulting program. CANCELLAITION COMING SOON!

Hello Patricia, Thank you for the extra information. I was surprised at first by folks calling for immediate cancellation. I thought what about First Amendment and freedom of expression. But I also understand groups of people being unhappy and angry about they way they are depicted on TV. I wrote about it, in fact, as you can see from the biography information at the blog. As the emailers involved in the move to have the show cancelled to comment at this blog if they will. I think this is an important discussion, and one the I and some of the readers as well might learn something important from. Thankks. Z

Z the show may have been on for a few weeks but most intelligent BLACKS do not find DL Hughley FUNNY! His humor is more of the personal attack (low end thinker) vs. intelligent humor such as CHRIS ROCK. With that said. Considering I am not a fan of Hughley (nonsense, lack depth humor) I knew I was not going to watch the program. Though I must admit I wondered why would CNN choose DL Hughley, he looks like a thug, he is not funny his audience tends to be mostly white because they think his type of low rent negative humor is funny. (they cannot fathom the insult, which I guess I can understand) but it does not change the fact that the show is an insult and step back in time! Pimps, pork chop eating …DL IS A SELL OUT!
Anyway, I received an email on yesterday with the clip from this show. AND THIS IS WHY THERE IS A RENEWED DISGUST FOR THIS insulting program. I am doing searches that allow comments and this is how I stumbled across your site. I am passing it on! CANCEL NOTICE COMING SOON! PRAYING FOR IT!

Thanks. Z

dl hugley is an idiot. like most misguided people who believe in the bible, his "intelligence" stops there.

One more thing...this is not just about President Elect Obama. This is an out and out insult to the entire black race. I am intellegent enough to know that the president will be used in comedy acts.. this is not about that. Heck I only saw the stupid clip on yesterday. His stupid act would not have changed my vote. Give the AMERICAN people more credit than that. It just pxxxxx me off that this insulting type of comedy is what CNN thought was okay and they got the perfect Nword to do. He deserves to be called the Nword because that is how he is acting. The house N. Last comment.

OK, Patricia. I asked for clarfication, and you certaionly delivered. I thank you for that. I wonder how other folks will respond to what YOU say. Z

He is a funny guy but the format needs to be chaned, maybe something more like Bill Maher. Also the audience seems unnatural.

OK, I'm an Asian female and a big fan of the Daily Show and the Colbert Report. When I first heard about DL Hughley Breaks the News I thought it was a great idea for CNN to show their humorous side by incorporating parody news and a comedian host in their line-up.

But when I actually sat down to watch the show I could not even get through an entire episode. It was terribly uncreative and unfunny, nothing like the Daily Show or even Bill Maher. Racial jokes are fine if they are done in a satirical manner and if the comedian is clearly not a racist. But this show simply did not tickle my funny bone. Completly boring.

Love it! Love ! So original and out-of-the-box.

Keep it up DL.

I don't find the show funny at all. I am a big CNN fan, and I am disappointed

Are you serious? You thought this was a funny show? Its the worst thing thats been on mainstream television since the Chevy Chase show. And to other blacks out there who are saying if you dont like it turn the channel, did you say the same thing when Don Imus was so insulting. I think not. Please help Bill Cosby, they just dont get it..

CNN,Programing, Please take the D.L. Hughley,"Black-Put-Down" Show off television. Hughley, is an un-educated, self-serving, black man, who will do anything, it seems for money. He has no place on Mass-Media. CNN, I am ashamed of you, for promoting this kind of obstacle,for the Public to have to over come. Please raise the Bar for the Public. Why drag out the bottom of Society, and put this forth as normal, funny commentary and behavior. What is your Reasoning for this? It certainly ican't be for the good of the World Society. There has to be some Evil-Outcome, expected by the Decision Makers, with this Program. Why, put (Good Money to Bad). It lowers your image as serious intelligent Journalism. It furthers, Mr. Hughley's misconception of himself, and his attributes to Society. And "Stunts his Growth". And, even worse, this Program is a detriment to the (much needed) growth, education and enlightment of the World. Your sinister, design of purpose, may "Backfire" on your CNN-Station one day.

I am a c-span viewer..and I love this
DLHughley. He is both smart and funny.

this guy is a clown but what do you want from a far left tv station