Kenya Barris, the creator of black-ish, thinks his show black-ish should win an Emmy this year. He could be biased.
But he’s also accurate. In three seasons, black-ish has developed into an understated force, and perhaps too modestly, one of the best shows on television, performing at its peak compared to other average network options. (Please step forward and reveal yourself if you’re a viewer of Kevin Can Wait.)
According to IndieWire, Barris told reporters at a recent press event, “We want an Emmy. I always take the backseat, because I think that’s the higher road to take, but I’m going to say it this time. I want it for my crew, for myself and because I grew up watching network television.”
Though an Emmy would be deserved, black-ish is in a difficult field this year for Outstanding Comedy Series, nominated with Atlanta, Master of None, Modern Family, Silicon Valley, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Veep, which won the category last year. “I love Donald Glover,” Barris added. “We are friends, I think his show is amazing. I love Aziz, I love Alan Yang. All of these people, I’m friends with, and they’ll have their time. But the days of network television are numbered.”
At the least, his show is beginning to earn its dues. In January, Tracee Ellis Ross became the first black woman in 35 years to win the Golden Globe for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy for her role.