The Cosby Show

In some ways, I think the Cosby Show definitely ignored the racism that existed at the time, somewhat playing into the hands of racists whose ideas of blacks are that they should simply "get over it" and "work hard" and all of their problems will be solved. On the other hand, this positive, almost utopian image seems to have been necessary for the eventual rise of other, more realistic portrayals of African Americans within our society. The Fresh Prince and eventually The Wire are definitely a departure from the premise of the original show, but if the progression is stereotype -> unrealistic idealized version -> eventual adoption of realistic portrayals, then I think the goal has nearly been achieved.