Ahhh, yes, the bane of old-time radio's existence.

But, according to African-American media critic Donald Bogle, also one of the most popular old-time radio shows of all time.

Which says something about the American public, only I'm not sure what...

Holy mac'rel, dere Andy!

Have just a wonderful book called "Raised on Radio" by Gerald Nachman. The chapter on "A'n'A" offers some insight on audiences, sponsors and network decisions concerning the show. I can take the TV version much more than the radio stuff, if only because the smell of minstrel shows clings to
Gosden & Correll too much for my taste.

It says that the American public appreciates good comedy. This was a very funny program, and it was no better or worse than any radio program of its day in depicting African-American people.

...it was no better or worse than any radio program of its day in depicting African-American people.

Yeah, but isn't that a bit of a copout? I mean, it sorta sidesteps the issue of what that depiction was in the first place, and let's face it, it wasn't great.

I see your point. But--the following comedy programs all featured stereotypes:

Jack Benny
Duffy's Tavern
Fred Allen
Fibber McGee and Molly
Life with Luigi

etc. etc. etc.

To single out "Amos and Andy" is inaccurate. I think this is really more like a judgment call. I happen to be Asian, and when Fred Allen does his "One Long Pan" sketches, do they bug me? Sort of (maybe because I don't find them funny), but I don't think he's racist. There's a fine line to walk, and FOR THE MOST PART, Amos and Andy walks it pretty well. Amos is presented as intelligent and honest, Andy is idiotic yet honest, and the Kingfish is a con man. Of course, then there's Lightnin'...and Shorty...they may be crossing the line.