Black television shows have played a huge role in shaping American culture and entertainment. From the fun and laughter of classic sitcoms to the powerful stories in dramas, these shows have given audiences a chance to see diverse characters and hear unique voices. Many of us grew up watching these programs, laughing at their jokes, and connecting with their characters. They have entertained us, while also addressing important social issues.
Today, we’re going to test your knowledge with some exciting Black TV trivia! Whether you think you know all the classic shows like “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “Martin,” or “Black-ish,” or you’re just curious about the history of these beloved programs, you’re in for a treat. Get ready to challenge yourself and see how much you really know about the amazing world of Black television. Let’s have some fun and celebrate the shows and stars that have made us laugh and think.
Black TV Trivia
Classic Sitcoms That Shaped Black TV
1. What show features a character named Will Smith who moves to live with his rich relatives? (Answer: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
2. In “The Cosby Show,” what profession does Cliff Huxtable have? (Answer: He is an obstetrician)
3. Which show features a group of friends and is set in a Chicago apartment? (Answer: Living Single)
4. “Martin” stars which comedian playing the title character? (Answer: Martin Lawrence)
5. What is the name of the family in “Black-Ish”? (Answer: The Johnsons)
6. Which classic sitcom features a character named Lamont? (Answer: Sanford and Son)
7. “A Different World” is a spin-off of which other show? (Answer: The Cosby Show)
8. Who is the iconic television dad played by Bill Cosby in “The Cosby Show”? (Answer: Cliff Huxtable)
9. In “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” what city is Will originally from? (Answer: Philadelphia)
10. What fictional character is often known for his relationship with his neighbor, Henny? (Answer: George Jefferson)
Groundbreaking Dramas in Black Television
1. Which drama features a lawyer overcoming obstacles in the legal world, sometimes reflecting social issues? (Answer: The Practice)
2. “This Is Us” features which prominent Black actress in a main role? (Answer: Susan Kelechi Watson)
3. What show, starring Keshia Knight Pulliam, focuses on a family running a restaurant? (Answer: The Cosby Show)
4. Which show deals with a Black gay couple navigating life in America? (Answer: Pose)
5. Who starred in the medical drama “Chicago Med”? (Answer: Nick Gehlfuss)
6. In “Queen Sugar,” which network airs the show? (Answer: Oprah Winfrey Network)
7. What drama features a character who is a powerful black woman running a family business? (Answer: Empire)
8. Which show features characters showcasing various family dynamics? (Answer: This Is Us)
9. What show features strong themes of identity and culture in modern society? (Answer: The Blacklist)
10. In “Greenleaf,” what is the main profession of the character Grace Greenleaf? (Answer: Pastor)
Iconic Black TV Characters
1. What character is known as the wisecracking brother from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”? (Answer: Carlton Banks)
2. In “Martin,” who plays Martin’s girlfriend Gina? (Answer: Tisha Campbell)
3. Who is the matriarch of the Johnson family in “Black-Ish”? (Answer: Rainbow Johnson)
4. What character is often referred to as “The Mother” in “The Cosby Show”? (Answer: Clair Huxtable)
5. Who is the outspoken neighbor in “The Jeffersons”? (Answer: Helen Willis)
6. On “Living Single,” what character is the strong-headed friend named Khadijah? (Answer: Queen Latifah)
7. Who played the character Dwayne Wayne in “A Different World”? (Answer: Kadeem Hardison)
8. What character is known for his catchphrase “You so crazy!” on “Martin”? (Answer: Sheneneh Jenkins)
9. Who is the leader of the family in “Family Matters”? (Answer: Carl Winslow)
10. In “Everybody Hates Chris,” who portrays the main character Chris? (Answer: Tyler James Williams)
Lights, Camera, Action: Award-Winning Shows
1. Which show won a Golden Globe for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy in 2017? (Answer: Atlanta)
2. What award-winning show features a college student navigating life at an HBCU? (Answer: A Different World)
3. What show highlighted the lives of ambitious black women and their successes? (Answer: Insecure)
4. “The Cosby Show” was nominated for how many Primetime Emmy Awards? (Answer: 31)
5. Who created the award-winning series “Black-ish”? (Answer: Kenya Barris)
6. What show won an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series in 2020? (Answer: Schitt’s Creek)
7. Which drama starring Viola Davis showcases the lives of law students? (Answer: How to Get Away with Murder)
8. What series chronicles the life of a Harlem-based family operating a nightclub? (Answer: Godfather of Harlem)
9. Who is the star and creator of the series “Key & Peele”? (Answer: Keegan-Michael Key)
10. Which show features a diverse cast of college friends overcoming life challenges? (Answer: Community)
Talented Black Creators Behind the Scenes
1. Who created “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”? (Answer: Andy Borowitz and Susan Borowitz)
2. What iconic producer is known for creating “Empire”? (Answer: Lee Daniels)
3. Who directed the hit film and series “The Best Man”? (Answer: Malcolm D. Lee)
4. Name the creator of the pioneering show “In Living Color.” (Answer: Keenen Ivory Wayans)
5. Who is the co-creator of “Black Mirror,” known for his groundbreaking work? (Answer: Charlie Brooker)
6. What famous female producer is known for her role in “Scandal”? (Answer: Shonda Rhimes)
7. Who was the executive producer for the show “The Cosby Show”? (Answer: Carsey-Werner Company)
8. Who was the writer for the classic series “A Different World”? (Answer: Bill Cosby and others)
9. What actor and producer created “The Boondocks”? (Answer: Aaron McGruder)
10. Who produced the award-winning series “Atlanta”? (Answer: Donald Glover)
Black Excellence in Animation
1. Which animated series stars the character Huey Freeman? (Answer: The Boondocks)
2. What cartoon featured a black superhero named Static Shock? (Answer: Static Shock)
3. Who created and starred in the animated series “Family Guy”? (Answer: Seth MacFarlane)
4. In “The Proud Family,” what is the name of the main character? (Answer: Penny Proud)
5. Which animated series brought black culture to a wider audience through humor? (Answer: The Boondocks)
6. What animated feature follows the adventures of a young African-American girl? (Answer: Hair Love)
7. Who is the voice of the character Dr. Facilier in Disney’s animated film “The Princess and the Frog”? (Answer: Keith David)
8. Which classic series featured the adventures of a young African-American family? (Answer: The Proud Family)
9. What show features strong themes of community and culture among its characters? (Answer: The Boondocks)
10. Who is known for voicing animated characters in “Lego Movie” series? (Answer: Will Arnett)
Final Thoughts
Black television has given us rich cultural stories and unforgettable characters that have shaped entertainment. From laugh-out-loud sitcoms to powerful dramas, each show has created a special place in our hearts. We celebrate the talent behind these shows, the creators, actors, and everyone who worked hard to bring these stories to life. Whether you tested your knowledge today or just enjoyed reminiscing about your favorite characters, let us continue to appreciate the impact of Black TV on our lives.
If you’re interested in exploring more about Black culture in entertainment, consider diving into our black movie trivia or learn more about black culture trivia. There’s always more to discover!