Remember the short-lived but memorable sitcom “You Take the Kids”? For those who might not recall, this American series graced CBS screens for a brief period in late 1990 and early 1991. It was a show that aimed to bring a Black perspective to the working-class family dynamic, often drawing comparisons to the popular “Roseanne.” At its heart was the undeniable talent of Nell Carter, who not only starred in the series but also lent her powerful voice to its theme song, “Nobody’s Got It Easy.”
You Take the Kids captured the essence of the Kirkland family, a blue-collar African American household navigating life in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Nell Kirkland, portrayed with grit and humor by Nell Carter, was the opinionated matriarch. Her husband, Michael, played by Roger E. Mosley, worked as a school bus driver, while Nell brought in extra income by giving piano lessons from their home. The show offered a glimpse into a relatable family unit, dealing with everyday challenges and joys.
The Kirkland household was a busy one, with four children: Raymond, the eldest son; Lorette, the boy-crazy daughter; 12-year-old Peter; and 10-year-old Nate. But the parental guidance didn’t stop with Nell and Michael. Living in the basement was Nell’s equally opinionated mother, Helen, adding another layer of family dynamics and intergenerational wisdom to the mix. This setup provided fertile ground for comedic situations and heartfelt moments, exploring the complexities of family life within the Black community.
The show’s creators sought to portray a realistic and nuanced depiction of an Afro-American family, a rare feat for television at the time. While its run was short, “You Take the Kids” made a statement by highlighting the resilience, humor, and love that define Black families. It’s a reminder of the diverse stories that deserve to be told and celebrated on screen, and how shows like You Take the Kids paved the way for greater representation.
Black Cosmopolitan
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For Education and discussion purposes. Please note no copyright infringement is intended, was recorded on BlkCosmo’s own equipment, and we do not own nor claim to own any of the original recordings used in this video and intend to use this as ‘fair use’.
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