Why does the African-American/Canadian audience respond to the soap opera format so passionately?
JR: There are several reasons. One of the major reasons is why the white audience responds — which is our continuing storylines. Also, daytime is the medium that is still airing on broadcast TV; it’s the only genre that you can access free. A large number of African-Americans fall below the poverty lines and can’t afford to buy cable. As more people get cable, and things change in this country, daytime should be able to revive itself in many ways, I think. TVG: I don’t understand — if the soaps’ primary audience is black, why does daytime employ such oppressive ideals? Almost enthusiastically and unashamedly, I may add. JR: [sighs] I find it very hard to understand, my friend. As a rule, soaps don’t consider minority characters important. TVG: Yet, the oppressed often hold the truth in society — and the most heart-wrenching stories. JR: Nighttime shows like Lost have disproved the soap opera module… their popularity is based on their diverse casts, not in spite of their diverse cast. S
