The hit black sketch show is back on our screens after a quarter of a century. But, despite its huge legacy, there is still much to be done when it comes to representation on
British TV
Three sharp-suited black men in bow ties walk into the British National Party headquarters, eager to join the racist outfit. But first they must answer some questions. So began one sketch from The Real McCoy, the groundbreaking
BBC show that, 30 years ago, brought a black British perspective to TV.
“England versus West Indies in the
Cricket. Who do you support?” asks the recruiter. “Millwall,” replies one of the men, cleverly sidestepping the question. “England and Cameroon are playing
Football. Who do you support?” “England,” says one. “Why?” asks the recruiter, incredulous. “Paul Ince, Paul Parker, Des Walker …” the men reply, listing England’s black players of the era.