Keke Palmer Addresses Backlash Over ‘Southern Fried Rice’ Remarks
The recently released trailer for KeyTV’s upcoming series, “Southern Fried Rice,” has sparked significant backlash on social media. Critics label the series as tone-deaf due to its premise, which follows a Korean American student raised by Southern Black parents at a fictional Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
Keke Palmer Responds to Criticism
Keke Palmer, the executive producer and founder of KeyTV, took to Instagram to address the criticism. In a video, she emphasized her support for the show’s creator, Nakia Stephens, and highlighted KeyTV’s commitment to fostering Black talent. Palmer stated, “While I can’t speak to her inspiration for the show, I can speak to her dedication as a creative.”
She acknowledged that individual tastes vary but stressed the importance of supporting Black creators regardless of personal preferences. “The support of Black creatives is not subjective,” Palmer asserted. She urged viewers to give creators a chance to grow.
The Mission Behind KeyTV
- Palmer aims to create avenues for creators of color to tell their stories.
- She emphasized the need for diversity behind the scenes, including roles such as camera operators and directors.
- Addressing the underrepresentation of Black individuals in the hair and makeup industry, Palmer noted systemic barriers preventing Black creatives from rising to high positions.
- KeyTV’s mission is to democratize opportunities within the entertainment industry.
Nakia Stephens’ Background and Vision
Nakia Stephens, the series creator and a Savannah State alumna, welcomed the discourse surrounding “Southern Fried Rice.” She described the project as “10 plus years in the making.” The series stems from her own experiences at an HBCU and observations of non-Black students in historically Black environments.
Stephens aims to evoke conversations about culture, belonging, and identity through the narrative. Both Palmer and Stephens invite viewers to watch the show on KeyTV’s YouTube channel and form their own opinions while also supporting Black creatives.
Conclusion
“Southern Fried Rice” represents more than entertainment; it embodies a movement towards inclusivity within the creative industry. As it prepares to debut on KeyTV, the conversations it sparks may prove as significant as the content itself.
